Rifts Machinations of Doom
Rifts Machinations of Doom
WARNING
parental discretion.
age the occult, the practice of magic, the use of drugs, or violence.
Machinations of Doom originally appeared serialized over eight chapters in The Rifter';) 6-14,
All rights reserved, world wide, under the Universal Copyright Convention, No part of this book may be reproduced in part or whole,
in any form or by any means, without permission from the publisher, except for brief quotes for use in reviews, All incidents, situations,
institutions, governments and people are fictional and any similarity, without satiric intent, of characters or persons living or dead, is
strictly coincidental.
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Machinations of Doom, Aishwarra, Anika Taherri, Anno, Archie TIu-ee, Battle Ca t, Bodakhao, 'Bot, ' Borg, 'Burb, Bowie, Chaos EUlth. Chi-Town, City Rat, Coalition States, CS , Combat
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RIFTS®
: MACHINATIONS OF DOOM
written & illustrated by RAMON PEREZ
GRAPHIC NOVEL
By Ramon Perez
SOURCEBOOK MATERIAL
Comic strip characters created by Ramon Perez, inspired by the Rifts® game line.
Written by Kevin Siembieda
Additional Writing by Julius Rosenstein
Editors Alex Marciniszyn & Wayne Smith
Interior Artwork Ramon Perez
Ar t Direction, Typography & Layout Ramon Perez
Based on the RPG world, rules, text, characters, concepts and Megaverse® created by Kevin Siembieda.
Palladium Books Inc. 12455 Universal Drive, Taylor, MI 48180 Printed in the USA.
CONTENTS
SOU RCEBOOK
Welcome to Rifts ................ 77
"'IOTABLE VEHICLES
SPECIAL THANKS
3
WeLCOMe TO THe WOQLO Q!fTS..,
The comic strip you have just read is inspired just a few of the new masters of magic. range of new and monstrous mutant animals
oy, and based on, the popular role-playing The Rifts are both a blessing and a curse. to serve the Coalition States. This includes
game, Rifts®. Their existence offers endless possibilities as Monkey Boys, Battle Cats, Kill Cats, Ursa
The Rifts® RPG has been played by an they are magic doorways to countless other Warriors (bears), and Mutant Rats (which
estimated 1.5 million people and has been worlds and alien civilizations. Rift travelers have gotten a bit out of control, with rogue
.)ptioned by Walt Disney Pictures for devel can go virtually anywhere in the rats living underneath the compound in the
.)pment by Jerry Bruckheimer (Pirates of the Megaverse® . sewers and between the walls).
Carribean, Top Gun, CSI, etc.) into a live However, these tears in space and time The Lone Star Compound is run by the
lction sci-fi movie. also unleash all manner of demons, monsters enigmatic Doctor Desmond Bradford. A gen
and alien invaders onto our ravaged Earth. tleman who gives new meaning to the term
Magic and technology collide in a world "mad scientist." Whether he is a super-patri
THE RIFTS® STORY where reality has gone mad . And heroes are a ot loyal to the Coalition , or a madman with
rare commodity. his own machinations for a better future, is
The Earth has become a dimensional
yet to be determined.
nexus. A junction point where the Rifts tear The 'Burbs • Slang referring to the urban
:hrough space and time linking Earth to a THE INSIDE TRACK cesspool of alien monsters, D-Bees, refugees,
lhousand different worlds. Meanwhile, the and villainy that usually settle outside the
Earth itself has become an alien landscape Chi-Town· Chi-Town is both a Coalition walls of the Coalition's great fortress cities
where the people, cultures, technologies and State and one of the great fortress cities. It is
such as Chi-Town or Lone Star Complex.
madness from a thousand alien worlds col home to the Coalition government, capitol of
lide! the Coalition States, and where the illustrious
It is a world of contradiction and juxtapo Emperor Prosek resides. Only humans live THE RIFTS®RPG
sition where high technology clashes with inside the city while tens of thousands of peo
:nagic, and robot warriors and power ple live in the squalid 'Burbs around it. RIFTS® is a pen and paper RPG. An RPG is
armored troops battle dragons and demons of Coalition States (CS) • Arguably the sal basically make-believe or let:S pretend with
legend. Humans augmented through super vation of humankind, the Coalition States is formal rules and story-like adventures . It is
science share the planet with sorcerers and loosely patterned after the old American played with a group of friends and is a com
.:reatures of magic. Empire (USA). The only difference is that the bination of improvisational theater, story
Nearly 200 years in the future, during a CS is ruled by Emperor Karl Prosek and his telling, silliness and fun.
golden age of science and advancement, human supremacists. Thus, the Coalition You, the players, are the heroes. The
umankind is nearly obliterated by the States is becoming more like Nazi Germany Game Master is the director who plays all the
Coming of the Rifts and the return of magic. than the USA. Its storm troopers dress in bad guys and other characters, and helps to
What's left of human civilization plunges black, skeleton armor and are known as Dead start and develop the story you tell. There's
iDto savagery and barbarism. Boys because of their dark, skeletal appear no real acting or props involved and you can
Centuries later, humankind begins to ris.e ance and the fact that they bring death to D play in your living room. When you're done
from the ashes of destruction to reclaim their Bees, mages and all enemies of the Coal ition playing a game session, it has the feel of hav
planet, only to find it is not the world of their States. ing just seen a great movie, only YOU played
forefathers. The Earth has been transformed Emperor Prosek and his Coalition States the main characters and shaped the story. It's
into an alien landscape. are obsessed with destroying all alien life awesome and there's nothing like it!
Alien beings, mutants, dragons, and forms and users of magic, whether they use If you'd like to learn more about Rifts®
demons have emerged through the Rifts and their powers for good or evil. In their own and our other role-playing games, check out
lay claim to places on Earth for themselves . way, the Emperor and the Coalition Anny are our website at palladiumbooks.com for the
Magic and technology clash, while aliens just as evil as the monsters they fight. complete lowdown .
and ancient gods and monsters, once believed D-Bees • This is the slang tenn for Or write to ask for our free catalog at
the stuff of myth and legends, walk the Earth. "Dimensional Beings," humanoids from Palladium Books, 12455 Universal Drive,
Meanwhile, humankind has emerged from alien worlds living on Rifts Earth. Taylor, MI 48180 . Tell 'em you heard about
a dark age to battle these superhuman Lone Star Complex· This is a sprawling, us in the Lone Star graphic novel and source
invaders in a desperate effort to reclaim their top secret, pre-Rift military compound bigger book.
planet. than Area 51 . It is built underground and spe
Some of these heroes (and villains) use cializes in genetic engineering. The CS dis
super-science to augment themselves, effec covered it and made it their own years ago.
tively making them just as superhumanly This is where the Coalition's famous Psi
powerful as the creatures they must fight. Hounds, better known as Dog Boys, like
Such warriors include Combat Cy borgs, Bowie, are engineered, grown, and trained to
Headhunters, JuicersTM, Crazies ™, Dog be elite grunts in the Coalition Army. They
BoysTM, and inhuman D-Bees™. are able to sniff-out magic and supernatural
Others draw upon magic. The Ley Line monsters, and make great scouts.
Walker™, Mystic, and Techno-Wizard™ are In recent years, Lone Star has created a
77
ANIKA TAHERRI
THE LONESTAR RAIDERS Tough, smart and capable, Anika is the of Psi-Hounds and other mutants, and
and Moses see the big picture and Anika them dead in their tracks. No, she is
Our heroes are members of a group of has the best mind for strategy and tac convinced something else is afoot here,
freelance mercenaries and adventurers tics. She steps into the role of leader and fears they are being used as pawns
who have traveled and fought together without even thinking about it, taking in a greater scheme. If only she could
plenty of times. They are not a major charge and barking orders as circum figure out what, because that might
mercenary organization like Crow:S stance dictates. Everyone on the team change what they do next with the
Commandoes or Braddock:S Bad Boys, recognizes and welcomes her military information in hand. And is this some
let alone Larsen:S Brigade. The group capabilities and clear judgement in machination of Desmond Bradford or
Dr. Desmond Bradford himself! heartbeats later. She is also courageous Species: Human, augmented by cyber
They preferred keeping a low profile. and sharp under fire. netics and bionics.
But sometimes when you plan on saving Anika likes to hold her cards close to Alignment: Scrupulous.
the planet you have to stick your neck the vest and often acts more calm and Attributes: LQ. 17, M .E. 12, MA 15,
up above the crowd. aloof than she's really feeling. P.S. 20, P.P. 23 with right hand, 20 with
Underneath her tough, cool exterior is a left (bionic) one, PE 15, P.B. 19, Spd
THE LONESTAR
passion . She considers her teammates Size: 6 feet, one inch (1.85 m).
RAIDERS
family, and cares for each and every one Weight: 150 pounds (67.5 kg).
FOR CRIMES AGAINST THE of them, even Johnny. Hit Points: 43. S.D.C.: 34.
that caters to Juicers, mercenaries, and M.D.C.: Via M.D.C. body armor or
And so The Lones/ar Raiders were adventurers. She had five brothers in magic from Moses.
christened when the Coalition began the mercenary business who all treated P.P.E.: 3
broadcasting their faces on wanted her like one of "the guys." They ' re the Experience Level: 7th level Headhunter.
posters and news feeds everywhere. ones who taught her how to shoot along
The team is somewhat loosely struc with the basics of the mercenary trade. Disposition: Anika is resourceful,
tured, and there is no official leader, per However, soon Anika was a better clever, and calculating. She can accu
se. Instead, leadership (and what cours sharpshooter than they were. Anika is rately sum up most situations at a
es of action the group takes) is derived deadly with guns of all kinds, but she glance and immediately starts formulat
from: a general consensus of everyone prefers pistols, is a quick draw and can ing the best course of action. She thinks
involved or by who yells the loudest. fire weapons with both hands simulta fast on her feet and is a natural born
That or you're an eight foot tall orange neously with deadly accuracy. leader, not that she'd admit it or accept
alien from another planet bristling with Tired of living in the shadow of her the title. Somehow accepting the title of
muscle that has a voice akin to a chain brothers, Anika struck out on her own at "leader" has too much responsibility
saw cutting through concrete that no one the age of 17 and hasn't looked back attached to it, which is why she 's the
will argue with! since. In addition to a love for guns, unofficial, de facto leader of the squad.
At various times Anika, 0.J., Moses travel, and adventure, Anika has always Every one of her teammates trusts her
or Bodakhan may take charge, giving been fascinated with secrets and the and her judgement completely, and sel
orders or making sweeping decisions hidden face of people and society. She dom hesitates to follow her lead or com
that affect the entire group. Even Johnny also enjoys technology in all its forms, mands .
and Bowie take the lead when the timing including bionics and cybernetics . Anika considers Moses and OJ.
is right, though that is not often. Shakes Though it is not obvious, Anika has a equals. She likes and enjoys working
is the only team member who the others bionic left arm and a number of bionic with Bodakhan and Bowie, but she
totally disregard as leadership material, implants. finds Johnny to be annoying, impUlsive,
though he may run off to do something Anika is glad they have managed to childish and irresponsible. She under
on his own. That having been said, more survive their adventure in Lone Star, but stands and appreciates Shakes, but
often than not, Anika is the de Jacto she knows something else is going on sometimes finds him to be a bit disgust
leader, due to her strong leadership behind the scenes. There is no way they ing and unpredictable (he is crazy).
skills and ability to make quick deci should have been able to escape - not if
sions. Doctor Bradford really wanted to stop Special Abilities:
them. The complex must have several • Headhunter's Find Contraband:
platoons of Dead Boy soldiers and A variant of the standard Find
SAMAS, hundreds, maybe thousands Contraband skill, only it is much more
78
-
ENEMIES OF THE COALITION
t~
Pilot: Truck 81 %, Radio:
79
Bodakhan is a loveable, big lug who is as wandering hero and hired gun . In fact, he strength, excellent reflexes, quick wit, and
loyal to his friends as anyone can be. He often tries to persuade his comrades to fol a fast healer: recovers lost M.D.C. at a rate
thinks of them all as family, and will do low a more noble and honorable patb. of 2D6 per 12 hours.
anything to protect them. He 's an excel Though be is not always as successful as • Prehensile Tail (special): All
lent fighter who likes big guns and explo he'd like. Grackle Tooth have a long, tapering, 12
sives, and knows how to use them (unlike Bodakhan agrees that they were proba 15 foot (3.6 to 4.6 m) prehensile tail. Adds
Shakes) . Like all Grackle Tooth, bly allowed to escape Lone Star with the one extra attack per melee round and can
Bodakhan has Supernatural Strength, a information. Though for wlfat purpose he use handheld melee weapons (Vibro
Mega-Damage body, and enjoys rough can't imagine, and that troubles him. He Blades, clubs, etc.) to strike, and even
housing, physical sports and combat. has never been one to play games with handguns. However, a weapon fired by
He doesn't know how he came to Rifts other people's lives and can't understand the tail is -3 to strike even for an Aimed
Earth and has no idea how to get home. people who do. Consequently, he hopes Shot. Note: If damaged or lost, the tail
He and his fellow tribesmen were locked that Anika, OJ. or Moses figures out what will regenerate at the rate of one foot (0.3
in a battle with an ancient Aishwarra dur sort of treachery may lay ahead of them, m) per month until it reaches its full
ing one of the great wars, when suddenly so they can avoid it, or tum the tables on length.
there was a swirl of color and energy and their nemesis. He has never been to the • Specialized Skills: All Grackle Tooth
he found himself in an unknown and alien Chi-Town 'Burbs and is looking forward have mechanical aptitude and Bodakhan's
land - Rifts Earth. (When the Aishwarra to the experience. area of specialty (MOS) is Demolitions!
was slain, a Rift erupted from its magical All skills and applicable bonuses are list
ly bloated corpse and it sucked in several Name: Bodakhan
ed below.
Jin-Ro warriors and shamans, who were Species: Jin-Ro. Nicknamed Grackle
his home world to remember it, Bodakhan word is bond, and he is so honest, trust M.D., and a Power Punch does ID4xlO
often thinks about his native planet, the worthy and noble, that if you didn't know M.D ., but counts as two melee attacks.
people, and battles with hated monsters better, you might think he was a Cyber Bonuses (total): +2 on initiative, +3 on
like the Aishwarra. He still wears his trib Knight. Bodakhan is one tougb hombre in Perception Rolls, +3 to strike, +5 to parry
al sash that displays the symbol of his combat, and can be merciless when deal and dodge, +5 to pull punch, + 1 to disann,
family, the Chakarra tribe, over his left ing with the enemy. Away from the battle +4 to roll with impact, +3 to save vs poi
shoulder, and carries his ancestors' field , he is a gentle soul who enjoys the son, +7 to save vs disease, +1 to save
enchanted blade. Now that he has a better simple pleasures in life. Two of those sim against magic, psionic attacks and illu
understanding of magic and dimensional ple pleasures are a good cigar and a brew, sions, and +5 to save vs Horror Factor.
portals, he plans to, one day, fmd his way another is exploring new realms and meet Critical Strike on a Natural 19 or 20.
home and bring with him an arsenal of ing new people, but the best is being with Vulnerabilities: None, per se. If anything,
modem weapons to replace his people's friends who make a difference in the it is his good nature and idealism.
primitive ones and help defeat their home world. Psionics: None.
adventure and enjoys playing the role of Special Abilities: Sharp vision, incredible Bionics and Cybernetics: None.
80
ENEMIES OF THE COALITION
Notable Equipment: One weapon for rna and 12 armor piercing (lD4xlO M.D .) m; may use a 10 burst clip or a 3000
each w.P. and ID4+4 E-Clips/ammo for rockets, but his other favorite is a round/ISO burst drum).
each, plus a Coalition CR-l Rocket Warlords of Russia-made import: AR-44 Other equipment includes patchwork
Launcher loaded with 12 rockets (lD6x 10 "Sledgehammer" rail gun (1 D4x 10 M.D . suit of body armor (62 M.D .C.), survival
M.D. each) and has an additional 24 plas- per 20 round burst; range: 4,000 feet/l 2 19 knife (ID6 S.D.C.), several pairs of pants
and shorts, a poncho, belt with holster and
pouches, bandoleer with 3 High Explosive
hand grenades (4D6 M.D.), shoulder belt
and scabbard that holds a magic sword,
backpack, bedroll, satchel, portable tool
kit, portable language translator, walkie
talkie, pair of soft leather gloves, 2D6+6
cigars, cigarette lighter, some personal
items.
The magic sword is actually a holy
sword from his tribe and does 2D6 M.D.
against ordinary foes, but 4D6 M.D.
against supernatural enemies, the undead
and animated dead, and lD6xlO M.D.
against evil gods and Alien Intelligences.
Money: 892 credits on him, 45,000 credits
in savings.
=----.....--"'.. ~".~-.-:~.:~~'
&......
81
Bowie is a rare "free born" Psi-Hound. Bowie's Skill Level: 72% to identify the
Psi-Hounds, better known as "Dog Boys," Special Abilities: specific type/race of supernatural beings,
are canines genetically engineered at the ·Sense Psychic and Magic Energy. such as Alien Intelligences, gods,
Lone Star Genetics Complex into Bowie 's Skill Level: 65% +5% per level demigods, demons, and vampires, as well
humanoid soldiers and defenders of of experience (roll once every as creatures of magic such as Faeries and
humanity in the service of the Coalition melee round) . Range: 650 feet dragons. Tracking by Scent: 60%.
States. A Free Born Dog Boy is a charac (198 m). No I.S .P. cost. Range 500 feet (152 m), 1,500
ter who was born, not grown in a test tube, Recognize (45 7 m) to track when magic
to two Psi-Hound parents. The parents Psychic Scent: as it is being cast, and 5,000
were either feral, escapees from Lone Star Bowie's SkiJl feet (1524 m) to sense and
or Rogue Psi-Hounds who went AWOL. Level : 30% to track Demon Lords, gods
Bowie has never served in the Coalition recognize and other powerful super
Army and knows nothing about Chi-Town the natural beings. No I.S.P.
other than the stories he has heard. Still, cost. Note: Close
like all Psi-Hounds, Bowie has an instinc
tive hatred for demons and evil supernatu to
ral beings, and an affection for, and an ley
affinity with, humans. In fact, all lines
Dog Boys can sense the presence (within
of the supernatural and magic, and mile/] .6
even track powerful sensations and disrupts
scents to their source. and blurs the
Bowie is a skilled mechanic, or psychic senses
Operator, specializing in automotive (reduce range and skill perfonn
mechanics. He's also a good driver ance by half) and completely
and can handle himself in a fight. obliterates them when on/with
He's not sure of what to make of in a ley line.
recent events at Lone Star. Clearly o Enhanced Physical
of mercs.
bonus if the mutant has a bit of hair, skin, have exceptional hearing. They can hear
blood, or an article of recently worn cloth into a higher range of sound and can reg
Disposition: Serious and somber. Bowie ing (4 hours or less) and +10% if it is ister sounds of 35,000 vibrations per sec
is a nuts and bolts kinda guy who likes to somebody or something the Dog Boy has ond compared to 20,000 in humans and
talk straight and get to the heart of the mat encountered in the past and knows well. 25,000 in cats. Their large ears work like
ter. He too considers the group to be his Bonuses are accumulative. Range: 70 feet external sound receivers that can prick up
adopted family and enjoys working, play (21.2 m) . No I.S.P. Cost. and swivel to focus in on the sound of the
ing and living with the rest of the squad. Sense Supernatural Beings: noise (thanks to 17 ear muscles). They can
82
also shut off their inner ear to filter the better. Can increase Spd 20%, range (of attack and all fonns of mind control, +2 to
general din of noise to zero-in on the weapons, radio signals, sensors, etc.) by save vs illusions, +2 to save vs possession
sound they want to concentrate on. 10%, reduce weight by 10%, and add one and curses, and +3 to save vs Horror
o Good SighUVision: The field of extra weapon or feature per each body Factor. Critical Strike on a Natural 18, 19
vision in short-nosed canines (like boxers area of a vehicle or standing fortification or 20.
and terriers) is 200 degrees, in long-nosed (front/nose, midsection, rear section, Vulnerabilities: None, per se.
breeds (like the Gennan Shepherd and top/roof, bottom/undercarriage, and Psionics: Dog Bogs automatically get the
hounds) 270 degrees; compared to the wing). Psychic Sensitive powers, but as an
human's 100 degrees. Dog Boys see color See Rifts® Ultimate Edition for Operator, Bowie has the following: Object
in a similar range as humans. more details about these powers. Read (6), Sense Evil (2), Sixth Sense (2),
o Sense of Taste: All Dog Boys have Also see Psionics. Telemechanics (10), Telemechanic Mental
only a fair to good sense of taste. This is Operation (12) and Speed Reading (2).
probably a blessing of evolution for true Skills of Note: Considered Master Psychic with a spe
. dogs because they are both carnivores Automotive Mechanics 70%, Barter 54%, cial psionic sensitivity as described above.
who eat what they catch (usually on the Basic Electronics 80%, Basic Mechanics LS.P.: 109. Spent I.S.P. is regained at the
run) and scavengers who eat old and 80%, Combat Driving, Computer rate of 2 points per hour of activity, or 12
decaying food of all kinds. Operation 80%, Computer Programing per hour of meditation or sleep. Needs a
o Sensitivity to Ley Line Energy: The 70%, Find Contraband (limited to 10 or higher to save vs psionic attacks.
steady stream of magic energy completely Machine Parts & Components) 66%, Magic: None.
obliterates their abilities to sense magic, General Repair and Maintenance 75%, Bionics and Cybernetics: None.
psionics and the supernaturaL Hand to Hand: Expert, Jury Rig 75%,
o Repair and Soup-Up Machines & Land Navigation 77%, Language: Native Notable Equipment: One weapon for
Vehicles (Operator ability): Tongue: American 94%, Language: Other: each W.P., suit of customized Bushman
Repairs for Cheap: Can completely Spanish 80%, Literacy: American 80%, annor (80 M.D.C.), plus a backup suit of
repair most parts, machines and vehicles Math: Basic 90%, Physical Labor, Pilot: Dog Boy annor (50 M.D.C.), Vibro-Knife
at a cost of 25% of its original list price Hovercycle 90%, Pilot: Hover Craft (lD6 M.D.; left hip), survival knife (lD6
(Plus his time if he's charging for it; typi (Ground) 85%, Pilot: Truck 70%, Pilot: S.D.C.), portable tool kit, tool belt, cloth
cally another 30% to 50%). Requires the Tracked & Construction Vehicles 70%, ing, belt with holster and pouches, back
right parts and time to make the repair. Radio: Basic 85%, Recognize Machine pack, bedroll, satchel, a variety of tools
Replace MD. C on the main body and Quality 73%, Vehicle Armorer 80%, and for working on vehicles, plasma torch,
key sections at a cost of 1200 credits per WP. Blunt, WP. Knife, and WP. Energy tinted goggles, air filter, handheld portable
every one M.D.C. point restored. Cannot Pistols, all at 5th leveL computer, language translator, walkie
exceed the original M.D.C. amount. Attacks per Melee: Five. talkie, wristwatch, cigarette lighter, and
Add MD.C to brand new vehicles and Damage: Via Hand to Hand Combat or by some personal items.
body armor. The percentage increase weapon. Money: 1,129 credits on him, 35,700 in
depends on the Operator's level of skill Bonuses (total): +2 on initiative, +6 on savings.
and experience; +5% at levels 2, 4, 6, 8, Perception Rolls, +2 to strike, +3 to parry
10,12, and 14. and dodge, +3 to pull punch, +2 to disann,
Maximize Performance. Can tweak a +4 to roll with impact, +2 to save vs
vehicle or most any machine to perfonn fatigue and disease, +2 to save vs psionic
Johnny's fiery and flamboyant personality her nerves, even Anika grudgingly cares Ironically, Johnny grew up in the Chi
matches his psionic powers of about Johnny. She treats Johnny like an Town 'Burb of Firetown. He knows that
Pyrokinesis. He's one cocky son of a gun, annoying "little brother" who enjoys teas 'Burb well, and he is also well acquainted
who enjoys being a swashbuckling hot ing and needling her. However, Johnny is with the surrounding 'Burbs, the Coalition
shot, and mixing it up. He has skills and secretly in love with Anika, he just does State of Chi-Town, and how its police and
impressive powers, but he has a nasty n't know how to tell her or show it prop soldiers operate. He has no love for
habit of leaping before he looks and erly. They have been "buddies" for so Emperor Prosek, the CS government or its
underestimating his opponents or the trou long, he fears she can't think of him in a anny, but he's not a radical subversive out
ble he's in. romantic light. Ironically, Anika finds to bring Chi-Town down. He just wishes
Despite his devil-may-care attitude, Johnny charismatic and dashing, if only the government would lighten up, treat
Johnny cares a great deal about his team he'd grow up and stop acting like a teenag people in the 'Burbs better, and accept a
mates, and respects and trusts every last er. In fact, he gets on her nerves so much, larger range of people. Johnny knows a
one of them. Which is good, because because she is attracted to him, and it bugs number of other Bursters, City Rats and
they've pulled his fat out of the fire on her. When push comes to shove, both are Black Market agents who live and work in
plenty of occasions. As much as he gets on there for each other no matter what. the 'Burbs.
83
Special
Abilities:
convinced they have data that
• Impervious
somebody will pay a mountain
to Fire and
of credits to get their hands
Heat: A psionic aura
on. He's happy to use the
around Johnny makes him
information they pirated
and what he is wearing,
from the computer in the
completely impervious to
Lone Star Complex to
fire and heat, even against
discredit Doctor
Mega-Damage fire. He can
Bradford or create
juggle hot coals, touch burning
trouble for the CS, but
embers, eat fire (for show, not nour
mostly, he hopes they
ishment), and walk or stand in fire without
make a killing selling it.
discomfort or catching on fire; it feels nat
Pickings have been a bit thin
ural and invigorating. Nor is he hurt or
lately and the group could use
affected by smoke. Note: This protective
some cash and a little R&R.
aura also helps protect against electricity
(M.D. attacks inflict half damage, S.D.C.
Name: Johnny Ferro
attacks just tingle), and he never sweats.
Species: Human, Psychic with
• Extinguish Fires: The Burster can
the powers of Pyrokinesis.
instantly put out flames without need
Alignment: Unprincipled.
of chemicals or water. The fire just dis
Attributes: I.Q. 12, M.E. 10, M.A .
appears. Range: 100 feet (30.5 m) + 10
15, P.S. 12, P.P. 14, P.E. 11, P.B . 13 , Spd
feet (3 m) per level of experience. Radius
11. of Effect: The psychic can extinguish a
Size: 5 feet, 11 inches (1.75 m).
200 foot (61 m) radius per level of ex peri
Weight: 180 pounds (82 kg) .
ence. Duration: Permanent; until the fire
Hit Points: 39. S.D.C.: 30.
is reignited. I.S.P. Cost: 4.
M.D.C.: Via M.D.C. body armor, Flame
• Flame Burst (Self): Johnny can
Aura or magic from Moses.
seemingly cause himself to burst into
Age: 27
flames and become completely engulfed
P.P.E.: 5
in fire. In reality, this is a fiery aura
Experience Level: 7th level Burster.
around him. Nothing on the Burster's per
son is actually on fire, so nothing is dam
Disposition: Cocky, full of himself and
aged. Furthermore, the character can
happy to give as good as he gets. Johnny
move around without difficulty. However.
thinks of himself as a swashbuckling hero
the fire will ignite anything he touches.
and dashing wise guy, but he's really a bit
such as carpeting, drapes, furniture, paper.
of a childish, impulsive, and smartalecky
wood, etc. Range: Self. Duration: Two
showboat. He has an answer or wisecrack
minutes per level of experience. S.D.C.
", for every occasion, even when he should Damage: 6D6 S.D.C. damage per strike
keep his mouth shut. He tends to act first to anyone or thing that he
and think about the consequences later, touches. Damage is
which gets him and his teammates in trou accumulative. Plus, all
ble on a regular basis. combustible articles
He thinks Anika is wound too tight and such as clothing will
takes life way too serious. However, he catch on fire, doing
respects her brains and abilities, and hap an additional 6D6
pily accepts her in the role S.D.C. damage per
of leader. melee round until
Johnny and extinguished. These are
some of the S.D.C. flames . I.S.P. Cost: 4.
"guys" love old, pre-Rifts action • Flame Burst Body Protection
adventure movies, including old Tarzan (Special): The aura of fire also provides a
flicks, superhero movies, science fiction limited M.D.C. field of protection equal to
flicks, comedies and old TV shows of sim 30 M .D.C. +6 points per level of experi
ilar themes. ence, which renews itself at a rate of 3D6
84
M.D.C. per melee round (never more than are reduced by half and fighting is impos km) a ley line nexus point!
the normal maximum). Note: There is no sible unless he breaks his concentration, See Rifts® Ultimate Edition for
extra LS.P. cost for this aura of protection; causing the fire to disappear. Base Skill: more details about these powers.
it comes with the Flame Burst. 48% +4% per additional level of experi Also see Psionics.
• Fire Bolt: A fiery blast fired from ence (roll percentile dice). A failed roll
the forehead or hands. Damage: Mini-bolt means the eruption happens 2D6 Skills of Note: Barter 68%, Computer
2D6 S.D.C.!Hit Points, medium bolt 4D6 yards/meters off target. The Burster is Operation 80%, Computer Programing
S.D.C., heavy bolt 6D6 S.D.C., or Mega 2S% to accurately hit a target he cannot 70%, Hand to Hand: Expert, Land
Damage plasma bolt: 2D6 M.D. Range: see if it is smaller than 20 feet (6.1 m) in Navigation 77%, Language: Native
200 feet (61 m) +20 feet (6 m) per level of diameter. Huge targets are easier to hit, Tongue: American 94%, Language: Other:
experience. Duration: Instant; counts as but even then the blinded Burster is -S% to Spanish 80%, Literacy: American 80%,
one melee action/attack. Bonus to Strike: strike. I.S.P. Cost: 10 for S.D.C. fires Math: Basic 90%, Pilot: Hovercycle 98%,
+4; line of sight. I.S.P. Cost: Two, regard regardless of size. 20 I.S.P. to create a Pilot: Motorcycles and Snowmobiles
less of the size and damage for an S.D.C. Mega-Damage fire. Maximum Size 98%, Radio: Basic 8S%, WP. Blunt, WP.
blast, and four points to create an M.D. Limitations: 20 foot area (6.1 m) +S feet Knife, WP. Energy Pistols.
blast. (1.S m) per level of experience. Attacks per Melee: Five.
• Fire Eruption: The pyrokinetic can • Sense Fire: The Burster can sense if Damage: Via Pyrokinetic Fire or by
cause a fire to erupt in front of somebody there is a fire as small as a burning candle weapon.
or an area (never directly on a living crea nearby. To sense the fire, the Burster must Bonuses (total): +2 on initiative, +1 on
ture) instantly and without the need of stop and concentrate for a moment (IS Perception Rolls, +3 to strike, +3 to parry
combustible material. If the Burster is ren seconds/one melee round). A moment and dodge, +S to pull punch, +2 to disarm,
dered unconscious, blinded or distracted, later, he receives psychic impressions that +4 to roll with impact, and +3 to save vs
the flame disappears. S.D.C. Damage: indicate the approximate size (big, medi Horror Factor. Critical Strike on a Natural
Tiny flame ID4 S.D.C., 1-2 yards/meters um, small, tiny) and the approximate dis 18,190r20.
fire 4D6 S.D.C., a towering pillar or wall tance (near or far), the general direction Vulnerabilities: Johnny is impulsive,
(6 feetl1.8 m tall or bigger) ID4xl0 (north, south, east, west, and, if in a build takes unnecessary risks, and leaps before
S.D.C., filling a room or 20 foot (6.1 m) ing, up or down) and if it is contained, out he looks. His wisecracks and sarcasm may
area or larger causes 2D4xlO S.D.C. dam of control, or spreading. Range: 800 foot also get him in trouble. And, not surpris
age (or one M.D. point) per melee round (244 m) radius +100 feet (30.S m) per ingly, Johnny is a sucker for a pretty face.
or whenever somebody attempts to run level of experience. Examining ashes or Psionics: Mind Block (4), Resist Fatigue
through it. Mega-Damage: The fire can burnt debris requires touching it. (4), Sense Time (2), Suppress Fear (8),
be increased to Mega-Damage destruction Duration: Requires IS seconds of and Telekinesis (varies). I.S.P.: 172;
by expending twice as many I.s.p; appli preparatory concentration, but the psychic Master Psychic. Spent LS.P. is regained at
cable only to the larger fires, walls, pillars, impressions and being in tune to the fire(s) the rate of 2 points per hour of activity, or
and areas. An M.D. fire wall or pillar lasts for four minutes, thus the character 12 per hour of meditation or sleep. The
inflicts 2D6 M.D., 20 foot (6 m) area does can use this ability to track down fires. character needs a 10 or higher to save vs
4D6 M.D. and 40 feet (12.2 m) or bigger Damage: None. I.S.P. Cost: Two. Note: psionic attacks.
does 6D6 M.D. per melee round or when If a Burster uses the power of Telepathy, Magic: None.
ever somebody tries to run through it. Empathy or See Aura, he can also sense if Bionics and Cybernetics: None.
Combustible items burn hotter and the fire the target of his psychic probe is a fire
spreads four times faster than a normal bug/arsonist. Notable Equipment: One weapon for
S.D.C. fire. Range: 100 feet (30 m) +20 • Super Fuel Flame: The character each WP., suit of Urban Warrior body
feet (6 m) per level of experience. A spe can feed a fire with psychic energy, armor (SO M.D.C., when he thinks he real
cific target must be visible, while a target increasing its size by as little as twofold or ly needs it), a knife (ID6 S.D.C.) slipped
area does not have to be visible, but its as much as 10 times. Range: 100 feet in his boot or in an ankle holster under his
precise location must be known to the (30.S m) per level of experience. Area of pant leg, a set of clothing, pants with deep
Burster, e.g. causing a fire to erupt in the Effect: 20 foot (6.1 m) area per level of pockets, a pair of soft leather gloves, belt
adjoining room or the room directly above experience. Damage: Increased propor with holster and pouches, backpack,
him, etc. Note: -2S% to accurately hit a tional to the size of the fire; G.M. discre bedroll, saddlebag, portable language
target he cannot see if it is smaller than 20 tion. I.S.P. Cost: 8. translator, walkie-talkie, wristwatch,
feet (6 m) in diameter. Duration: 10 min The influence of ley line energy: The ID6+ 3 packs of cigarettes, some personal
utes or until the Burster cancels the effect. duration and range of the Burster's pyro items and a Firefly HovercycJe (loves
The psychic can keep the fire burning by kinetic and other psychic powers are 'em).
expending an additional one LS.P. every increased by SO% whenever on or near Money: S73 credits on him, 3,131 credits
10 minutes, but must stay within range (within one mile/1.6 km) a ley line. The in savings.
and concentrate on maintaining the fire. duration, range, and damage of his powers
Penalties: Melee actions of the Burster are doubled when at or near (one mile/1.6
85
Moses is the mage on the team. He is a Moses can't shake tbe feeling this is ramifications of the group's actions even a
skilled and practiced Ley Line Walker, something different. Bigger. More insidi little better than Anika, though he is not as
one of the most famous types of practi ous and earth shattering tban anyone of good at military strategies and tactics. He
tioners of magic on Rifts Earth. He dress them yet realize. And he's not sure any of is a hero through and through and consid
es in dark clothes, robes and capes (typi them are going to make a penny on this ers the group his second family.
cally dark blue or black) and wears a face information. Part of this comes from sen
mask that is also a gas mask and protec sations he felt while inside the monster. Special Abilities: All Ley Line Walker
tion for his head and face. The mask has a Somehow he felt linked to it. Felt its pri O.c.c. Abilities. See Magic Knowledge.
bit of a demonic or insect appearance due mal desires and knows that it hungered for Skills of Note: Climbing 75%/65%, Cook
to the bug-like lens over the eyes and the magic. Or more to the point, people of 70%, Computer Operation 75%, Dowsing
pair of horns. magic. It feeds and procreates using the 50%, Hand to Hand: Basic, Land
What nobody - not even the rest of the energy of the mages it swallows. But what Navigation (56%), Language: Speaks
gang - knows, is that Moses is an alien would the CS want with a creature tbat Native Language: Demongogian at 98%,
from beyond the Rifts. The horns are not eats magic unless ... Language: Other: American, Spanish and
part of the mask, but they and the braided Could Bradford be preparing a legion Dragonese/Elven all at 88%, Literacy:
hair are his. They're real. He carefully of monsters to wage war upon the American 60%, Lore: Demon & Monster
guards this secret, and fears his friends' Federation of Magic? First Tolkeen, next 70%, Lore: Faeries and Creatures of
reaction should they learn the truth. He's the Federation? Could the Emperor, or at Magic 65%, Lore: Magic 65%, Lore:
not a demon, though he resembles one, least Bradford, be considering creating a Psychics and Psionics 65%, Intelligence
and he knows how people on Rifts Earth legion of magic devouring monsters so 52%, Math: Basic 85%, Physical Labor,
fear demons and magic. that the human casualty count won't be so Pilot: Hovercycle 93%, Research 70%,
Despite Moses' dark and ominous high next time? Is the Emperor part of this Wilderness Survival 70%, and W.P.
appearance, he is an idealist and hero with scheme? Have they nipped it in the bud by Energy Pistol at 6th level.
dreams of helping people and making the killing the one creature Bradford had cre Attacks per Melee: Five.
world a better place. Thus, he uses his ated? What impact will selling this infor Damage: As per Hand to Hand Combat,
magic to help and heal, liberate people mation have on the world? And who weapons or magic.
from oppression and right injustice. Well, should they sell it to? The CS? The Bonuses (total): +2 on Perception Rolls,
at least whenever he can. As a group of Federation? Lazlo? Will going public stop + I to strike, +2 to parry and dodge, +2 to
freelance adventurers and guns for hire, what could be the next Coalition War? pull punch, + 1 to disarm, +2 to roll with
the group sometimes finds itself taking Moses has yet to share his speCUlation impact, +4 to save vs possession and mind
jobs just to make ends meet. And some and fears with the group, but he will control, +3 to save vs curses, +2 to save vs
times, they end up on the wrong side before they reach Chi-Town. psionic attack, +5 to save vs magic, +3 to
always a troubling matter. save vs poison, + 12% to save vs
Moses is one of the three de facto Name: Moses
coma/death, and +4 to save vs Horror
group leaders, along with Anika and 0.1. Real name: Ghaza Mos Esto'tchal
Factor. + 1 to Spell Strength.
He tends to defer to Anika or 0.1. in mat Species: Unknown.
Vulnerabilities: None per se.
ters involving combat, but he is nearly as Alignment: Scrupulous.
Psionics: None.
capable and trusted as Anika in team mat Attributes: I.Q. 14, M.E. 18, M.A. 15,
Magic Knowledge: As per Ley Line
ters and his voice holds a lot of weight. P.S. 15, PP. II , P.E. 21, P.B. 12, Spd 10.
Walker O.c.c.
Ultimately, the group dynamics boil down Size: 6 foot, 3 inches (1.9 m).
o Sense Ley Line: Feels whether there
" to the fact that they all care about one Weight: 180 pounds (81 kg).
is a ley line within the area of his sensing
another and function supremely well Hit Points: 50. S.D.C.: 35.
abilities. For Moses that's 60 miles (96
together. They are a well-oiled fighting M.D.C.: Wears light Mage body armor
krn). Follow the feeling to the location of
and adventuring machine - and most of under his robes; M.D.C. 48, as well as
the ley line is 55%.
all, friends. uses various spells for additional M.D.C.
o Sense Ley Line Nexus: Once found,
going be an epic adventure. He just hopes Walker. Had different life before coming
when a Rift opens or closes anywhere
they all live through it to tell the tale. He to Rifts Earth.
within 75 miles (120 krn) of him.
has no doubt that they are being used as o Sense Magic in Use: Can feel when
pawns in one of Desmond Bradford's mad Disposition: Intelligent, educated, civi spells are cast or magic used within 600
schemes. Ironically, he doesn't think the lized, and serious. Talks mainly when be feet (183 m) of him. Note: This does not
data they carry and the plot that is unfold has something to say, but a)so has a sly include the use of psionic powers .
ing has anything to do with Emperor sense of humor and a dry wit. He is good o See Magic Energy: The mage sees
Prosek, Chi-Town or Lone Star directly. at seeing the big picture and the potential magic energylP.P.E. radiating from peo
86
• Ley Line Phasing (Teleportation): Walker is one with the ley line. Of course,
Moses can instantly teleport from one unless he can see his destination, he can't
place to another, FLAWLESSLY anywhere know who or what might also be present
on the same ley line. The teleport in that area and he could appear in the
is always on target, because the middle of an armed camp (but not inside
Ley Line one of them or a tree, etc., as is the danger
with the Teleportation spell).
• Ley Line Walking or Line
Lines: Moses Drifting: Moses can open himself
knows informa to the ley line energies and walk
tion about the ley orfloat through the air along the
line in a matter of length of the ley line. The
moments. speed factor is a mere Speed of
Data 10, but it is relaxing and
includes requires absolutely no exertion
length or even physical movement of the
direction, num feet or body if drifting afloat. NO
ber of Nexus points, P.P.E. is necessary for the Ley
if there is an active Line Walker to do this,
Rift, and if there are any because he's drawing on the
major natural disasters cur ambient energy of the
rently happening along the line. He can even
line, such as a forest fire, meditate while drift
flooding, hurricane, or ing down a ley line. Height
earthquake. War and magic is typically 1-5 feet (0.3 to
are not natural disasters. 1.5 m) above the ground,
The power is automatic and but if he concentrates he can
does not require the expendi reach a height as great as the line
ture of personal P.P.E. itself.
• Ley Line Transmission: • Ley Line Rejuvenation: Moses can
Moses can send a verbal and/or use the ley line energy to double the rate
visual message directly along a ley of natural healing by concentrating to do
line to another person so long as that per so. The mage can also perform an instant
son is also located somewhere on that ley rejuvenation on a ley line once every 24
line. The message takes only a matter of hours, in which after about ten min
seconds. The message can be sent to one utes of concentration, he is
specific person or several people (one per completely rested, alert,
son per level of the sender's experience), and healed of 20 Hit
or several people at different locations on Points and 20 S.D.C.
the line. There is no way for the sender to +6D6 additional Hit
know if others have eavesdropped on his Points and ID6x10+12
message. Nor is there any way S.D.C. Again, at no
scramble the message. This power P.P.E. cost, but only
is an automatic ability for possible on a ley line.
the Ley Line Note: No P.P.E. or I.S.P.
Walker and can be restored this way,
does not only Hit Points and S.D.C.
require • Ley Line
ex Observation Ball: A globe of
penditure of light, about the size of a soccer
personal ball, can be conjured out of
P.P.E. thin air and linked to the Ley
Line Walker like a third eye.
Moses'
Observation Ball
/ (the size of a
soccer ball) has
six M.D.C., a range of 3,000 feet (914 m),
and a Spd of 44 (30 mph/48 km). It is +3 to
dodge and cannot attack. Everything it sees, OJ. is dying. He is a Juicer in the early have at least six months to a year left,
Moses sees. stages of "Last Call," meaning he has and he'd like to enjoy that time without
• Ley Line Force Field: Moses can erect 3D6+8 months left to live. pity and tears from his friends .
an energy fi eld reminiscent of the Armor of OJ. once worked for the Coalition
lthan around himself whenever he's on a ley as a hired mercenary and scout, but that Name: Oswald "OJ" James
line. It has 26 M.D.C. and costs the mage 10 was five years ago, and before he Species: Human, augmented through
P.P.E. to create/summon it initially, but once hooked up with "the gang." Since then, chemicals that are killing him.
it is in place it remains up for the entire time he has found friendship and purpose Alignment: Scrupulous (started out
he remains on the ley line or until he dispels with his fellow adventurers and loves Anarchist, but hanging out with this
it. If the Ley Line Force Field is destroyed , it them like his own family. He tried to group has made him a better man).
regenerates at full strength at the start of the " kick the juice" and detox two years Attributes: I.Q. 14, M .E. 12, M.A. 10,
next melee round! ago, but he couldn ' t do it, and went P.S. 32 (Augmented), P.P. 20, P.E. 21,
• Spells of Note: Armor of Ithan (10), back to being a Juicer even though he P.B. 10, Spd 89 (60 mph/96 km) .
Ballistic Fire (25), Befuddle (6), Blinding knew it was a death sentence. Juicer Size: 5 feet, 11 inches (I. 79 m) .
Flash (I), Breathe Without Air (5), Call augmentation turns the recipient into a Weight: 178 pounds (80 .1 kg).
Lightning (15), Cleanse (6), Cloud of Smoke superman with lightning reflexes, Hit Points: 78. S.D.C.: 379.
(2), Globe of Daylight (2), Electric Arc (8), Augmented Strength equal to most Age: 25
Energy Bolt (5), Energy Disruption (12), cyborgs , and an energy that defies P.P.E.: 7
Energy Field (IO), Extinguish Fire (4), Float description. Problem is, the human Experience Level: 8th level Juicer.
in Air (5), Force Bonds (25) , Fuel Flame (5), body can ' t handle the "juice" - the
Heal Wounds (l0), Impervious to Fire (5), chemicals - that provide the super abil Disposition: Being old for a Juicer and
Levitation (5), Ley Line Fade (20), Ley Line ities and quickly bum the body out. The knowing death is coming, OJ. has
Phantom (40), Ley Line Tendril Bolts (26), life expectancy of the average Juicer is become much more reserved, compas
Ley Line Time Capsule (I5), Magic Net (7), 5-7 years, and Oswald is coming into sionate and introspective . He 's not
Magic Pigeon (20) , Magic Shield (6), his sixth year. Once "Last Call" starts, it afraid to die, but he hates the idea of
Manipulate Obj ects (2+), Purification (20), can't be stopped or reversed. OJ. and leaving his friends to fend for them
See the Invisible (4), Sense Magic (4), all Juicers know that. This means OJ. is selves and knows his passing will affect
Shadow Meld (10), Sheltering Force (20), looking for a couple big scores before them all. He'd like to help the group
Rift Teleportation (200), Teleport: Lesser he dies, leaving the proceeds to his pals make some big cash before he dies so
(15), Teleport: Superior (600), Tongues (12), in the group (he doesn't have any fami that, maybe, they can retire from being
Tum Dead (6), Wall of Defense (55), Wall of ly left), and going out in a blaze of mercenaries and enjoy a more peaceful
Wind (40), and Words of Truth (15). Note, glory. and safe life .
for hundreds of spells, different types of OJ. hopes that the information
magic, magic items, magic weapons, herbs retrieved from Lone Star may be the big Special Abilities: Can leap 30 feet (9.1
and other magic related info, check out score he's looking for, but like Anika, m) across and 20 feet (6.1 m) high after
Rifts® Book of Magic . he wonders if the group isn't in over a short run; half that distance from a
P.P.E.: 192. The Ley Line Walker can their heads. He agrees with her that they dead stop. Lasts 10 times longer before
also draw an extra 20 P.P.E. per melee round were allowed to escape the Lone Star feeling the effects of exhaustion (actual
when on a ley line and 30 when at a ley lines Complex, and he's, personally, con ly, with Last Call in swing, it's only 7x
nexus pointl P.P.E. recovers at a rate of seven vinced that Doctor Desmond Bradford longer). Can remain alert and operate at
"" points per hour of sleep or rest or 15 P.P.E. must be the one responsible. That full efficiency for up to five days (120
per hour of meditation . means they are playing into somebody's hours) without sleep. Normally needs
Bionics: None. hands and OJ. doesn't like being any only three hours of sleep per day.
Notable Equipment: One weapon for each body 's henchman one bit. All he can do • Enhanced Healing (special):
w.P. , light body armor (48 M.D .C.) under the is pray that in the end, things tum out in Heals four times faster than normal.
robe, Vibro-Knife (ID6 M.D.), set of cloth their favor and something good comes +20% to save vs coma and death.
ing, belt with pouches, black, hooded robe, of the information. Virtually impervious to pain , no amount
protective face plate and gas mask with holes Having been so healthy and power of physical pain will impair the Juicer
for his horns to stick out from the forehead, ful for so many years, the Juicer is sur until he is down to 5 Hit Points or less.
backpack, portable translator, walkie-talkie, prised how quickly and profound the At this point the warrior will collapse,
note pad and I D4 pens and markers, pocket intermittent tremors, nosebleeds and falling into a trance/coma, which is
mirror, silver cross (for fighting vampires), power swings (great surges and low really a Bio-Comp-induced state of
1D6 wooden stakes, a wooden mallet, and ebbs) have set in. It worries him, as he accelerated healing.
some personal items . doesn't want to become a liability for See Rijis® Ultimate Edition for
Money: 4,300 credits on him, with 54,800 his friends and teammates. Nobody has more details about Juicer abilities.
credits stashed away in savings. noticed his illness yet, and he'd like to
keep it that way. He knows he should
88
ENEMIES OF THE COALITION
89
The group is more like a family than a Name: Real name unknown, goes by the
odors (01-65% chance), recognize a per
military outfit, and they have ridden nickname 'Shakes.'
son by scent like a dog (01-25%
together for the last five years, in some Species: Human, augmented by M.O.M.
chance), and even track by smell (01
cases, seven or eight years. That's why brain implants.
30%), provided the scent is not more
they put up with Shakes' strange idio Alignment: Unprincipled (was
than two hours old .
syncrasies and crazy antics. They Scrupulous).
• Enhanced sense of taste is so acute
remember when he had most of his men Attributes: I.Q. 9, M.E. 7, M .A . 9, P.S.
the character can taste for a specific fla
tal faculties and was an important mem 25 (Augmented), P.P. 22, P.E. 13, P.B . 8,
vor, discern specific ingredients, and tell
ber of the team. Spd 43 (30 mph/48 km).
if a drink or food has been poisoned,
Nowadays, Shakes is an oddball who Size: 6 feet, 6 inches (1.9 m).
drugged or is spoiled. Chance for detec
has to be watched and kept in line to Weight: 150 pounds (67 .5 kg).
tion is 01-55%, +20% if the chemical
make sure he doesn't do anything fool Hit Points: 73. S.D.C.: 182 .
has a telltale taste or odor to begin with.
ish, inappropriate or dangerous to the Age: 34
• Enhanced sense of touch enables
group. A third of the time Shakes is P.P.E.: 10
the character to recognize very slight
oblivious to the trouble or danger going Experience Level: 9th level Crazy.
differences in textures by touch.
on around him. A third of the time he is • Enhanced Healing. Heals two
aware, but a nut job and loose cannon Disposition: Good natured and seems
times faster than normal humans and is
who might take extreme, unnecessary, perpetually happy. He enjoys making
virtually impervious to pain. No amount
silly or deadly action in answer to any jokes, quips and bad PlUlS even in des
of physical pain impairs the Crazy until
given situation. The rest of the time perate situations. As Bodakhan would
he is down to 10 Hit Points or less. At
Shakes has his faculties , and is aware say, "Shakes ain't right in the head, you
that point he suddenly realizes his condi
and ready to do whatever is necessary to know, but he's a good guy in a fight."
tion and starts to feel the effects of his
get the job done. Also see Insanities.
lOJunes.
Shakes is crazy, as well as being a He likes everyone on the team, but • Crazies' Bio-Regeneration. This
Crazy. Crazies are warriors who have especially Anika (who he regards as the ability is a little different from the psion
voluntarily gotten M.O .M . brain team leader), Bowie and OJ. Of course, ic power, although related. Shakes must
implants to tum themselves into super this is also a guy who likes to chew on stop what he's doing to slip into a medi
humans. Indeed , Shakes' reflexes are so feathers and hand grenade pins, and jug tative trance. While in the trance, he is
good, he can catch a bird in mid-flight gle live birds or explosives. completely helpless and cannot move or
with his bare hand without hurting it. He take any action. All of his concentration
is fast, nimble and deadJy in combat, Special Abilities: Shakes can leap 20 is focused into an accelerated, bio-feed
doing flips and somersaults while shoot feet (6 m) across and 15 feet (4.6 m) back program that restores 2D6 Hit
ing a weapon or throwing grenades. He's high after a short run (half that distance Points and 3D6 S.D.C., stops bleeding,
also a whack job who laughs in the face from a dead stop). He can also lift and and closes wounds in 2D4 minutes. An
of death and finds humor in almost every carry twice as much as a normal person extended period of Crazies' Bio
situation, even deadly ones. of equivalent strength and endurance, Regeneration, over a period of six hours,
Like the rest of his crew, Shakes is a and can last 10 times longer before feel restores all S.D.C. and an additional4D6
hero through and through. It's just that ing the effects of exhaustion. He remains Hit Points!
the brain implants that make him super alert and operates at full efficiency for See Rifts® Ultimate Edition for
human have also made him mentally up to three days (72 hours) without more details about these powers.
disturbed. He was pleased to be able to sleep, and needs only four bours of sleep
rescue Moses from the belly of the mon per day to function at full capacity. Skills of Note: Barter 72%, Begging
ster and is aware that the group has valu • Enhanced vision provides the char 53%, Cardsharp 60%, Climbing
able information for sale. However, the acter with perfect 20120 vision and 98%/95%, Dance 80%, Detect Ambush
Crazy has no idea what the information exceptional long-range , hawk-like 75%, Electronic Countermeasures 60%,
is or what's done with it. He's just along vision; can read a small sign or recog Escape Artist 85%, Gambling (Standard)
for the ride and to lend a helping band nize a face from up to two miles (3.2 60%, Gymnastics (+20%), Hand to
when necessary. He's heard Anika, OJ. km) away when he concentrates; must Hand: Martial Arts, Interrogation 64%,
and Johnny talking about secret plots, have line of sigbt. Juggling 85%, Land Navigation 80%,
setups and being used as pawns, but it all • Enhanced hearing can hear a Language : Native Tongue: American
sounds too complicated and boring for whisper or a twig snap under someone's 95%, Language: Other: Spanish 85%,
him to deal with. He's ready for action boot up to 300 feet (91.5 m) away. The Math: Basic 95%, Pilot: Hovercycle
whenever and wherever it comes. He acute bearing gives the Crazy an auto 98%, Pilot: Hover Vehicle 90%, Pilot:
does hope the group is heading for the malic dodge on all attacks, even from Sail Boats 85%, Prowl 80%, Radio:
Cbi-Town 'Burbs, because there's behind and surprise attacks. Basic 95%, Sing 60%, Swimming 98%,
always opportunities and action in that • Enhanced sense of smell enables Rope Works 65%, Tailing 80%, and WP.
town. the character to instantly recognize Blunt, WP. Knife, WP. Handguns, WP.
90
91
Magali is the leader of the Mutant Rats as a group of adventurers trying to reach her attention .
living beneath the Lone Star Complex, Project Omega) who can assist her in her Psionics: A Major Psycruc who needs a 12
in the sewers and catacombs of the sub goals. Altbough a passionate individual, or better to save vs psionic attacks. Her abil
terranean military compound. Several she is willing to put aside her personal ities are Empathy (4), Presence Sense (4),
years ago, when the Mutant Rats made feelings to accomplish her goals or for See Aura (6), and Sixth Sense (2). I.S.P.:
their mass escape, Magali was one of the the greater good of her people (for which 32
rats who managed to take command of Dr. Heston is extremely grateful). Magic: None.
the situation. Through virtue of her high Bionics and Cybernetics: None.
er intelligence and aided by her psychic Special Abilities: Climb 87/82%, Swim
abilities, she managed to convince a 77%, Prowl 77%, Identify scents 54%, Notable Equipment: Magali travels
number of her fellow rats to follow her Track by scent 50%, can leap 6 feet (1.8 light with only the clothes on her back
instructions. m) up and 10 feet (3 m) across, double and a pair ofVibro-Knives.
These proved to be well thought out jointed and ambidextrous. Her primary weapons are
plans and the rats who did Magali's bid a pair of Vibro-Knives
ding managed to stave off destruction Skills of Note: Camouflage (1D6 M.D. each), but
from the Lone Star extermination squads 47%,Detect Ambush 62%, £~""-5~~~~~~ she has collected a
and containment patrols, while many of Escape Artist 72 % , Hand
the other rats were exterminated en to Hand: Assassin, common and
masse. The Mutant Rats decided that Intelligence 56%, basic Coalition
they had a capable leader and have fol Jury-Rig 57%, Land weapons, gear
lowed Magali for years. Navigation 74%, and body armor
As word spread through the cata Language: American she and her min
combs about the She-Rat who actually 90%, Pick Locks 67%, ions have stolen
looks after the well-being of her pack, Pick Pockets 62%, Radio:
more rats joined. Now, other than small, Basic 77%, Running, The
scattered rat packs who still maintain Sniper, Tailing Rats
their precarious independence, Magali is Tracking (peo have no money
the undisputed leader of the Lone Star ple) 57%, per se. What
free rat population. Their colony is quite Wi Iderness --~'\ little money they
large and dangerous, to the point that Survival obtain mainly
even the extermination squads try to 62%, and from
give them a wide berth unless they have W.P. Knife unwary
a couple of Kill Cat platoons at their dis (Vibro travellers
posal. Blade), WP. in their
Energy Rifle, ' catacombs and is considered
Name: Magali
WP. Hand community property used to
Species: Mutant Rat.
guns , and buy things such as food,
Alignment: Aberrant.
WP. Paired weapons, and medicine
Attributes: I.Q. 17, M .E. 10, M.A. 11 ,
Weapons, all from other (less hos
P.S. 12, P.P. 19, P.E. 13, P.B. 6, Spd 28.
at 5tb level. tile) travelers.
Size: 5 feet, 5 inches (1.52 m).
Attacks per Melee: Eight! Note: The rea
Weight: 127 Ibs (57 kg).
Damage: As per hand to that
Hit Points: 25 . S.D.C.: 29.
hand combat or weapon.
M.D.e.: None, relies on her agility and
Bonuses (total): +5 on initia
knowledge of the catacombs for protec
tive, +2 to strike, + I to strike with adventurers
tion. Wears stolen "Dead Boy" body
a thrown weapon, + 1 to dodge, +4 to so quickly
armor when necessary.
damage, +4 to roll with was due to
P.P.E.: 8
punch/fall/impact, +4 to pull her psychic
Age: 12
punch, Karate Punch (2D4 powers of Empathy
Experience Level: 5tb level Mutant Rat.
damage), Karate Kick and See Aura. Even though
(2D6 damage). the adventurers did not
Disposition: Magali is a true leader. Her Vulnerabilities: Her know tbey were being
two goals are (in order of priority), to overpro tecti venes s scanned, Magali knew
protect her people, and to undermine tbe toward her tribe could that they could ulti
Coalition forces at Lone Star (or any work against her. Threaten her people mately be trusted.
where, for that matter). More intelligent and you have
and far-sighted than her people, Magali
will readily ally herself and her
Mutant Rats with anyone (such
92
General humanoid appearance, bipedal Natural Abilities: Ambidextrous, double Bonuses (in addition to those acquired
body with a pair of humanoid arms, legs jointed, also have soft, joined, collapsible from attributes and skills): + I attack per
and hands. They have a long, hairless rat bones to squeeze through openings one melee per round, +3 on initiative, + I to
tail and their bodies are covered in a light third the size of their body, fatigue at 10% dodge, + I to pull punch, +2 to roll with
grey, black or white fur. Their fingers and the rate of humans, can leap 6 feet (1.8 m) fall or impact.
toes have claws and the head looks very high and 10 feet (3 m) across from a Magic: None, as a rule. The study of
much like that of a rat. Most are thin and standing position, increase height and dis magic doesn't appeal to Mutant Rats,
wiry. Hands are fully articulated with a tance 30% with a running start. Identify although they like magic items and
human-like opposable thumb with long, scents: 44% +2% per level of experience, weapons.
sharp, nails. Bipedal stance and walk Track by scent: 40% +2% per level of Psionics: 01-25 % are minor psionics;
upright. Speech is human-like but a bit experience. select four Sensitive powers.
guttural and they have a tendency to hiss, The tail is not prehensile. Rats, includ Bionics and Cybernetics: None.
growl, and squeal when excited, angry or ing Mutant Rats, chew on wood, bone,
scared. concrete, metal, etc. to wear down their Common Equipment: Whatever they can
constantly growing teeth, otherwise their scrounge or steal. One weapon for each
Player Character Note: Player charac fangs will grow through their jaw! WP. , Vibro-Blade (45 % Vibro-Knife 106
ters who are not CS agents (spy, infiltrator, R.C.C. Skills: Regardless of the O.c.c. M.D., 30% Vibro-Short Sword 2D4 M.D.,
scout, soldier, etc .) must either be "feral" selected, all Mutant Rats have the follow 10% Dog Boy Vibro-Claws 2D6 M.D .,
renegades (runaway mutants/deserters) or ing Skills, Climb (+20%), Escape Artist 10% large Vibro-Sword 2D6 M.D. and
the offspring of runaway mutants. In the (+20%), Prowl (+15%), Land Navigation 5% Neural Mace), survival knife (106
first case, they are considered dangerous (+20 % ), Swim (+20%) , Wilderness S.D.C.), patchwork armor (4D6+30
traitors in need of termination. In the latter Survival (+10%). M.D.C.), flashlight, comb, 30 feet (9.1 m)
case, the mutant is considered to be a O.C.C. & Skills: As per O.c.c. of lightweight rope, utility belt, air filter, a
hopelessly corrupt and dangerous "feral Theoretically, a Mutant Rat could be any canteen or waterskin, ID4 small sacks,
free-born" and destroyed whenever Occupational Character Class (O.c.c.), I D4 large sacks, some clothes, and a
Alignment: Any, but typically Anarchist most of those living under the Lone Star Money: None to start, typically will have
(30%), Miscreant (30%) and Diabolic Complex are uneducated and are one of some tradable goods (weapons, food,
93
NOTABLE VEHICLES
crowded conditions).
nuclear.
km).
tall, 6 tons.
M.D.C. by Location:
• Main Body: 252
• Super Tires (3): 25 each
• Reinforced Pilot's Compartment: 60.
Black Market Cost: 76,000 credits for
the basic vehicle (gasoline engine) . Other
features such as radar, radio, rail gun, etc.
cost separately. 70,000 credits for electric
engine and 500,000 for nuclear with a 20
year life. Additional armor can also be
added at a cost of 10,000 credits per 30
M.D.C.
94
NOTABLE VEHICLES
95
Species: Human.
Alignment: Aberrant.
Attributes: I.Q. 27, M.E. 21, M.A. 18, PS. 19, P.P 15, P.E. 14,
S.D.C.: 20.
early forties.
P.P.E.: 15
or experiment on you!
96
WP. Energy Rifle at 6th level. Hand to Hand: Expert, 10th level.
~ Clock Calendar, Gyro-Compass, and Universal Headjack and
Magic: None.
Personal Resources: Always one to plan ahead, Bradford has
Psionics: None.
six million Universal Credits, 24 million credits worth of pre
Notable Equipment: Has access to virtually anything he needs basic travel and medical equipment (vehicle, armor, weapons,
or wants from the CS Government and Military. Has the highest medical bag) and debit cards of 100,000 Universal Credits scat
security clearance and has access to all levels and facilities at the tered at a half dozen secret locations in the State of Lone Star.
97
Alignment: Miscreant.
Attributes: l.Q. 14, M.E. 17, M.A. 14, P.S . 14, P.P. II , P.E. 17,
M.D.C.: Wears Dead Boy armor (main body 100 M.D.C.) but
bat situations.
P.P.E.: 7
98
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
99
P.P.E.: 14
to his teammates and will risk his life for them without hesita
tion, he will hurt them if they get out of line or feels they are dis
Special Abilities:
under his wing and placed him under Agent Krieghoff to teach
2D6+16 S.D.C. damage, a Power Punch does 2D4 M.D. but
tial conflicts, primarily over which of them was the Alpha male,
S.D.C. damage, while a full strength bite does 5D6+8 S.D.C.
Arquebus settled down to become a valuable member of the
Bonuses (total): +3 on initiative, +2 on Perception Rolls, +5 to
Pack. He eventually worked his way up to second-in-command
strike, +8 to parry and dodge, + 16 to damage, +4 to roll with
of the team and has been a valued member ever since.
impact, +5 to pull punch, +3 to disarm, +2 to entangle, can per
form a body flip/throw, Karate and any hand strike/punch, any
N arne: Arquebus
type of foot strike including Leap Kick (3D8 damage, but counts
Species: Mutant Timber Wolf.
loses his cool and fights in a frenzy. Although this usually stops
Hit Points: 48. S.D.C.: 82.
100
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
{,. ~ '\
magic items, including weapons.
Bionics and Cybernetics: Bionic eye (left) with multi-optics.
,,",'"
.
Notable Equipment: Arquebus takes whatever equipment he is
assigned for the mission. As a rule, he has modified CA-l Dead
~, ,~
Boy armor (80 M.D.C.), a C-I0 laser rifle with telescopic sight
and nightvision scope (2D6 M.D., 2000 foot/610 m range) , a C
18 laser pistol (2D4 M.D., 800 foot/244 m range) , ID4+4 extra
E-Clips for each, a survival knife, a pair of Vibro-Claws (3D4
M.D. each pair), utility belt, gas mask, walkie-talkie, uniform, (30 ,5 m) of lightweight rope, small hammer, 4 spikes, 3 animal
canteen, tinted goggles, PDD pocket audio recorder, pocket laser snares, infrared distancing binoculars, portable language transla
distancer, flashlight, pocket mirror, cigarette lighter, 100 feet tor, a knapsack, and a backpack
Even before her full conversion into a combat cyborg, Khola was Name: Kbola
an anomaly. There are many diversities among the Dog Boys, Species: Experimental Psi-Hound
especially when taking into account the different breeds of dogs Alignment: Scrupulous.
that the Lone Star geneticists had to work with . Pit Bulls are usu Species: Mutant Pit Bull turned into a Combat Cyborg,
ally one of the smaller breeds of Dog Boys, rarely reaching 5 feet Attributes: l.Q . 14, ME 13, MA 12, P,S . 28 (Bionic), PP. 17
(1 .5 m) tall. At six feet tall, Khola stood out like a giant, topping (Bionic), P.E. not applicable, P,B. 10, Spd 132 (90 mphll44 km;
her comrades at almost a head taller. Her size, power and speed Bionic).
caught the eye of Doctor Bradford and she became another one Size: 6 feet, 10 inches (2 m).
of his private, unauthorized experiments. Psi-Hounds aren't sup Weight: 500 lbs (225 kg).
posed to get bionic conversion, but rules never seem to bother the M.D.C.: See Bionics for full details, below.
good Doctor, and he finagled authorization for fuJi bionic con P.P.E.: 3
version under the auspices of one of his unique, top secret exper Experience Level: 6th level Psi-Hound turned Combat Cyborg
iments.
Being treated as a freak by other Psi-Hounds in the past has Disposition: Less aggressive than Arquebus, but just as deter
made Khola determined to prove herself. When Doctor Bradford mined, Khola commands the second squad if the pack splits up.
promised her new machine body would make her the most pow Although the pit bull is lower than Arquebus in the team hierar
erful Psi-Hound in the CS , she welcomed the opportunity. When chy, Khola is smarter than the Timber Wolf and Krieghoff gives
he was done with her, he had Khola assigned to Krieghoff's her more opportunities for independent operation and command
Pack, where she has served with distinction. Khola has become of the second unit. Khola is both respected and liked by her team
an integral part of the team, adding power, speed, and the ele mates.
body armor, at least until she runs them down at 90 mph (144 a full conversion cyborg with bionic attributes and power.
km) or sprays them with a barrage of rocket grenades from her • Sense Psychic & Magic Energy: Gone due to bionics.
concealed shoulder launchers. Khola also brings loyalty and sta • Recognize Psychic Scent: Gone due to bionics,
bility to the unit. She considers her fellow misfits on the team to • Sense Supernatural Being: Gone due to bionics,
be her best friends, and she would sacrifice herself to protect any • Superior Sense of Smell: Recogni ze common and strong
one of them. scents is 55%. Identify specific odors is 34%. Track by smell
101
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
she is likely to push herself and her comrades a bit too far, espe
sion.
Magic: None.
Bionic Body: Combat Cyborg, only her head is flesh and blood,
102
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
Special Abilities:
• Sense Psychic & Magic Energy: 30%.
• Sense Supernatural Being: To identify type/race is 44%.
Track by scent is 25%.
• Good Senses of Smell, Taste, and Hearing: Recognize
common and strong scents is 49%. ldentify specific odors is
30%. Track by smell alone is 28%.
• Nightvision: 200 feet (61 m).
• Natural Climber: 80%/60%.
• Natural Swimmer: 60%.
• Sprinter: Can run at double normal speed for 104 minutes
before dropping back to nonnal speed.
• Sensitivity to Ley Line Energy: Fouls special senses.
See Rifts® Ultimate Edition for much more details about
these powers.
Also see Psionics.
Skills of Note: Language: American 80%, Cook 50%, Forced
March, Hand to Hand: Expert, Hunting, ldentify Plants & Fruits
50%, Land Navigation 54%, Outdoorsmanship, Physical Labor,
Radio: Basic 65%, Running, Trap/Mine Detection 30%,
Wilderness Survival 60%, and WP. Energy Pistol, WP. Energy
Rifle, WP. Heavy Military Weapons, and WP. Blunt, all at 3rd
level.
Attacks per Melee: Four.
Damage: As per Robot Strength or weapon. Restrained Punch
does 104xlO+8 S.D.C., or lD6xlO+21 SD.C., or 104 M.D. A
Full Strength Punch: 2D6 M.D., Claw Strike: 3D6+2 M.D., Power
Punch: 406 M.D. but counts as two attacks. Bite attack: Nip does
5D6 SD.C., Full Strength Bite does 106 M.D.! Note: Bionic left
arm does 204+21 S.D.C. damage on normal full strength punch
and 204 M.D. on a Power Punch only. The bionic arm is not as
Years ago, some scientists at Lone Star were attempting to create
ing him. If left on his own, he is lazy and lacks personal initia
tive. Also, unfamiliar situations sometimes throw him for a loop.
Name: Oso
M.D.C.: Wears modified Dog Pack DPM Riot armor (main body
103
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
Special Abilities:
• Sense Psychic & Magic Energy: 45%.
• Sense Supernatural Being: To identify type/race is 60%,
To track by scent is 16%.
• Excellent Vision and Passive Nightvision: 1000 feet (305 m).
• Excellent Sense of Hearing: The ability to judge distance
and precise location of the source of the sound is 86%.
Recognize & identify prey by sounds is 78%.
• Fair to Good Sense of Smell: Better than a human's.
• Natural Climber: 60/40%, and can leap 12 feet (3.6 m)
high and 16 feet (4.9 m) across, 50% greater with a running start.
• Natural Swimmer: 50%, but dislikes getting wet.
• Sprinter: Can run at double normal speed for I D4 minutes
before dropping back to normal speed.
• Sensitivity to Ley Line Energy: Fouls special senses.
See Rifts® Ultimate Edition for much more details about
these powers. Also see Psionics.
Since joining the Lone Star military, Byss had a hard time fol
50%, Wardrobe & Grooming 62%, Wilderness Survival 60%,
be pointless. After skirting orders one time too often, Byss was
Handguns, and WP. Paired Weapons, all at 4th level.
mission that required the feline's special skills. Given the choice
attack (nip - 3D6 damage, full strength bite - 6D6 damage).
down , 8yss took the assignment. The mission was a success and
+4 to damage, +5 to roll with impact, +3 to pull punch, Karate
8yss found herself with comrades she could trust and a com
Punch (2D4 damage), Karate Kick (2D6 damage), + I to save vs
manding officer she could respect. With her solitary nature she
magic and poison, +2 to save vs psionics and mind control, +4%
killing.
80% to evoke trust or intimidation.
Name: 8yss
into situations that are beyond her ability to handle on her own.
Also, she often prefers to rely on her agility and will not wear
Alignment: Aberrant.
Attributes: I.Q . 14, M.E. 8, M.A. 24, P.S. 15, P.P. 18, P.E. 17,
ic attacks. Her abilities are Presence Sense (4) and Sixth Sense (2).
I.S.P.: 50.
Magic: None.
104
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
Species: Human.
Attributes: LQ. 22, M.E. 17, M.A. 12, P.S. II, P.P. 20, P.E. 10,
.
Height: 5 feet, 8 inches (1.65 m).
Age: 57
P.P.E.: 7
Engineer.
little hope for escape. He's been informed that his family thinks
with their lives without him. This, combined with his slavery and
Doctor Alexander is a brilliant surgeon, Cyber-Doc and genetic Skills of Note: Language and Literacy: American at 98%, knows
engineer. He is also one of Doctor Bradford's unwilling slaves, Criminal Science & Forensics, Medical Doctor, M.D. in
forced to create what he considers to be "horrible abominations." Cybernetics, Pathology, Genetics (Special), Chemistry,
Doctor Alexander "knows" what they are doing is morally repre Chemistry: Analytical, Biology, Botany, Anthropology, Basic
hensible, against the laws of the CS, and immensely dangerous. and Advanced Math, Computer Operation, Computer
He believes that Doctor Bradford and the others are playing with Programming, Pilot Hovercraft (Ground), and Radio : Basic, all
forces that they do not completely understand and may unleash at 98%. He also knows W.P. Knife/surgeon skill at 12th level, and
terrible genetic mutations into the world. He is never allowed w.P. Energy Pistol 9th level.
outside the top secret GED facilities (he hasn't seen the sky in Number of Attacks: Five; Hand to Hand: Basic, 6th level.
13 years), and is believed to have died in a freak accident. Bonuses: +4 to strike, +6 to parry and dodge, +2 to S.D.C. dam
Doctor Bradford personally handled the autopsy and informed age, +2 to pull/roll with punch, fall or impact, kick attack (lD6
the family of this great tragedy. damage), Critical Strike on 19-20, judo-style body throw/flip,
Doctor Alexander is controlled by threats and an explosive and + 1 to save vs psionic attack.
implant at the base of his skull. The good doctor has made it his Magic: None.
mission to try to keep the Bradford's madmen from straying into Psionics: None.
areas that he thinks are far too dangerous, and has secretly sabo Bionics and Cybernetics: Clock Calendar, Gyro-Compass, and
taged a few creation experiments. So far, these acts of subtle sab Universal Headjack and Ear Implant.
105
AGENTS OF THE COALITION
A.W.O.L.
His naivete is obvious by the very fact that he believes Emperor
Prosek and others high up in the Coalition will embrace him and
put him in charge of scientific duties in the halls of science at
Chi-Town. Roddy Heston has a lot to learn, and he's not likely
to appreciate the lessons.
In Sector 7 Dr. Heston moved up in the hierarchy to become Vulnerabilities: Dr. Heston was very naive about Lone Star and
the secondary lead on the Alpha-4 project working closely with Dr. Bradford 's agenda. Even now, he is still reluctant to fight. It
Dr. Alexander, who he enjoys a good game of chess with from is not that he is a pacifist per se; he just relies too much on rea
time to time. soning even when physically overcoming someone is the better
option.
Alignment: Aberrant.
Bionics and Cybernetics: None.
Attributes: LQ. 20, M.E. 15, M.A. 16, PS. 9, P.P. 17, PE. 13,
106
ENEMIES OF THE COALITION
Doctor Rodriguez Heston is the group's Roddy Heston can handle at the moment. items, but until he can help them sell the
newest and most unlikely member, a He prays his mind and talents will be wel computer files and get an even share, he
Monkey Boy from the Lone Star Genetics comed at the great fortress city of Chi must rely on our heroes ' kindness.
Complex. He was a loyal Coalition scien Town. There, he hopes to make his new Whether he stays with the group as its
tist in the service of Desmond Bradford home. Maybe even meet the Emperor, newest member or leaves them in Chi
until our heroes broke into the Lone Star himself. Wouldn't that be grand? Town, is yet to be determined. He is cer
Complex and stepped into his lab. For now he 's working with our heroes tainly welcomed among the group.
Suddenly, the Mutant Chimpanzee discov and much to their chagrin, he's kind a Money: Zero at the moment. Could be
ered he was not a highly valued colleague, growing on them. He's a bit stuffy for rich after selling information in the Chi
but a highly expendable commodity. It their taste. The team has taken to calling Town ' Burbs.
was a revelation that has changed his Ii fe him 'Doc' despite his constant reminders
in an instant. Doctor Heston no longer that they should address him as Dr. Note: Despite his limited combat training
believes that Dr. Bradford is a savior, but Heston. The good doctor has also taken to (which was mandatory for Lone Star tech- "
a monster who only cares about his own to enjoying playing a good game of chess nical personnel), Roddy does not want to
skin. Doctor Heston still has a great deal with Shakes from time to time. arm himself. He never was armed at Lone
of faith in the Coalition States and Doctor Heston is still in a bit of shock Star (that's what those guys in the Dead
Emperor Prosek, but that may be crashing and trying to figure out his future. Until Boy armor were for) and still feels that the
down soon, too. he's been with the group a while (6 people best trained for combat should han
Roddy is still reeling from the unex months or a year), his loyalty has to be dle such matters and leave thinking to the
pected changes in his life. Suddenly, he is suspect. Even he doesn't know where his educated and rational people - like him.
without a home, a job or a purpose. He is loyalties lie anymore.
inside a big ATV with people he doesn't
know, traveling through a wilderness he's Name: Rodriguez Heston, Doc to his to
only read about. As a Monkey Boy his newfound teanunates.
mutant, the only home he has ever known
is the laboratories of the Lone Star Notable Equipment: Except for
Complex . Doctor Heston had never even the clothes on his back, Dr.
set foot outdoors before yesterday. Now, Heston left everything
he's headed for Chi-Town and an uncer he had behind in Lone
tain future. Star. Since joining
He can't imagine why Doctor Bradford our heroes, it is safe to
would let him and the group escape, let assume that he
alone escape with the knowledge in the may have picked
pirated computer files and the data inside up a few use
his head. The Monkey Boy knows a lot -- ful
about many illegal and dangerous proJ
ects, including the Omega
Project. Why on earth
would Doctor Bradford
want that information
leaked to the outside
world, or even to
Emperor Prosek?
It's all more than
107
TYPICAL COALITION SOLDIER nal flares, a survival knife, utility belt, air enables the SAMAS to hover stationary
filter & gas mask, walkie-talkie, uniform, up to 200 feet (61 m) or fly. Maximum
The Coalition Army is, arguably, the most
combat boots, canteen, and an S.D.C. mil flying speed is 300 mph (480 km), but
advanced in N orth America. The stats that
itary assault rifle are more or less standard cruising speed is considered to be 150
follow are for the typical Third Level CS
issue. The specific assignment (and what mph (240 km). Maximum altitude is lim
Grunt also known as " Dead Boys. " They
the commanding officer feels is needed) ited to about 500 feet (152 m).
are armor clad infantry soldiers.
w ill determine what other gear will be Physical Strength: Robotic PS. of 30.
issued. Main Gun: C-40R SAMAS Rail Gun
Alignment: Any.
(1): This is standard equipment for the
Required Attributes of Soldier: PS. II ,
TYPICAL CS SAMAS SAMAS and is considered to be one of
P.P 9, P.E. 11 , Spd 15, all other attributes
the most versatile, accurate, and light
are average.
The "SAMAS," also known as "Sam," is
weight rail guns in the world . Other heav
Species: Human
the Coalition 's elite flying power armor.
ier rail guns can be substituted in an emer
Hit Points: 20. S.D.C.: 35 .
The SAMAS is a complete environmental
gency or for special missions. There is no
M.D.C.: Standard CA-4 "Dead Boy"
power armor with enhanced robotics and
separate power pack. The unit is hooked
Armor (100 M.D.C. main body) .
flight/air to ground capabilities. The
directly to the armor's nuclear power sup
P.P.E.: 6
SAMAS , like all power armor, is basical
ply.
Experience Level: 2nd to 5th lev el
ly a robot exoskeleton with M.D.C. plat
Weight: Gun: 92 lbs (41.4 kg), One
Coalition Grunts (Dead Boys).
ing, superhuman strength, and weapon
SAMAS Ammo-Drum: 190 lbs (85 .5 kg).
Skills of Note*: Language: American
systems. The pilot fits inside the exoskele
Mega-Damage: A burst is 40 rounds and
92% , Basic Mechanics 40%, Body
ton. The SAMAS is a significant element
inflicts ID4xlO M.D ., one round does
Building, Camouflage 45%, Climbing
of the Coalition 's armored troops,
1D4 M .D.
55 /45%, Demolitions 66%, Demolitions
designed for assault and defense in all
Rate of Fire: Each burst counts as one
Disposal 66%, Find Contraband 34%,
environments .
melee attack.
First Aid 55%, Forced March, Hand to
Range: 4000 feet (1219 m).
Hand: Expert**, Land Navigation 44% ,
Alignment: Any.
Payload: 2000 round drum, that's 50
Math: Basic 55%, Military Etiquette 60%,
Required Attributes of Pilot: I.Q. 10,
bursts. A second drum can be hooked to
Pilot Hovercraft 70% , Pilot Tanks &
P.S. 10, P.P. 11, P.E. 10, Spd 14, all other
the undercarriage of the rocket jets, but
APCs 58 %, Radio: Basic 65 %, Robot
attributes are average.
must be manually removed by another
Combat: Basic, Running, Sensory
Species: Human.
SAMAS or a character with a strength of
Equipment 50%, Weapon Systems 60%,
Hit Points: 25. S.D.C.: 25 .
26 or higher to replace the used drum.
and WP. Energy Pistol, WP Energy Rifle,
P.P.E.: 6
Reloading a drum will take about 5 min
WP Knife, WP. Targeting (specializing
Experience Level of Pilot: 2nd to 7th
utes for those not trained, but a mere one
in grenade throwing), and WP Rifle.
level Coalition Elite RPA (Robot Power
minute by somebody trained in the use of
* With the exception of American, the Armor).
SAMAS power armor.
skills shown above are listed at 3rd level M.D.C. of SAMAS Armor by Location:
Secondary Weapon: CM-2 Rocket
proficiency and may be adjusted either • Shoulder Wings (2): 30 each Launcher: The forearm not used to oper
higher or lower by as much as 10% to • Main Rear Jets (2): 60 each ate the rail gun, usually left, is armed with
reflect characters of varying experience. • Lower Maneuvering Jets: 25 each a mini-missile rocket launcher.
** A minority are trained in Hand to • Ammo Drum (rear) - 25 Mega-Damage: Varies with missile type,
Hand: Martial Arts or Assassin. • Rail Gun - 50 but any mini-missile can be used.
Attacks per Melee: 4 (5 for the more • Forearm Mini-Missile Launcher: Standard issue is armor piercing (1 D4x 10
'experienced Grunts) . (I, left): 50 M.D.) or plasma (1D6x 10).
Bonuses (total)*: +2 to strike, +3 to parry • Head - 70 Range: One mile (1.6 km).
and dodge, +2 to roll with punch, fall, or • Main Body - 250 Rate of Fire: One at a time or two simul
impact, +3 to pull punch, +2 to disarm, Speed: taneous ; either counts as one melee
kick attack (ID8 damage), can perform a Running: 60 mph (96 km) maximum. attack.
Karate Punch. Note that the act of running does tire out Payload: Two mini-missiles.
* Bonuses will vary with the experi its operator, but at 10% of the usual Note: See Rifts® Ultimate Edition
ence and the training of the individual sol fatigu e rate thanks to the robot exoskele for much more details about this power
dier. ton . armor.
Psionics: None. Leaping: The powerful robot legs can Skills of Note (Pilot)*: Language:
Magic: None. Outlawed by the Coalition leap up to 15 feet (4 .6 m) high or across American 94%, Astronomy & Navigation
States. unassisted by the thrusters . A jet thruster 45%, Basic Mechanics 45% , Demolitions
Notable Equipment: Coalition "Dead assisted leap can propel the unit up to 100 69%, Demolitions Disposal 69 % ,
Boy" body armor, a C-12 or C-14 laser feet (30 .5 m) high and 200 feet (61 m) Electronic Countermeasures 55% , First
rifle, a C-20 laser pistol , 4 extra E-Clips across without actually attaining flight. Aid 60%, Find Contraband 38% , Hand to
for each , 2 fragmentation grenades, 3 sig Flying: The rocket propulsion system Hand: Expert**, Land Navigation 48%,
108
109
6
_---./1.
110
There was only one Aishwarra monster at to nurture the female's unborn young. The • Aishwarra are solitary creatures.
the Lone Star laboratories and it was monster swallows practitioners of magic, They NEVER team up for any purpose.
destroyed by our heroes. Day saved, shamans, and other gifted people whole, The only contact they have with each
right? Wrong. and stores them, alive, inside their body, other is either when one Aishwarra
First, Doctor Desmond Bradford holds so that the horror may procreate. It needs encroaches on the hunting grounds of
the genetic blueprint of the monster and the P.P.E. batteries of living sorcerers and another, resulting in a battle over territory,
can make more, and as many as he'd like, creatures of magic to spawn young. This or when a pair mate. Even then, the male
anytime he desires. You'd think then, it is also enables the great beasts' numbers to leaves once his work is finished, never to
a good thing that our heroes are about to grow quickly and take over. be seen again by the female (if she is
ruin his reputation by releasing informa Once gorged on sufficient magical lucky; see #2 below). Once the female has
tion they stole from the Lone Star energy (P.P.E.), the Aishwarra spawn, cre laid her eggs, she departs as well, and
Complex. With any luck, that information ating eggs that are batteries of magic. does not even remain to see them hatch.
should get Dr. Bradford removed from his Before these eggs hatch into young The eggs are hidden and when they hatch,
post, and put an end to monstrosities like Aishwarra, they can be used by practition the young Aishwarra must fend for them
the Aishwarra and whatever mad dreams ers of magic for powering magic spells, selves.
the Doctor has for his mysterious Project rituals, wards, circles, or virtually any • Aishwarra are cannibals. Generally,
Omega. That's what our heroes are think other type of mystical enchantment. The the Aishwarra who hatch first instinctive
ing, but Doctor Bradford has other plans. eggs can also be tapped into by P.P.E. ly run for the hills, otherwise one of their
As he put it, they don't know it yet, but vampires such as Psi-Stalkers to feed brothers or sisters may kill and devour
"they are working for him now." upon. them. Young Aishwarra, in tum, are prey
Doctor Bradford wants the information Some of the P.P.E. used for these pur for adults, particularly adult males . When
leaked, because it will put the Project poses ultimately returns to the ambient Aishwarra sense each other, they general
Omega into motion. That project will environment (anywhere around 10% to ly fight, with the result that the stronger
include some limited use of the Aishwarra 30%, depending upon the type of magic feeds on the weaker. Depending upon the
as well, and he already has a dozen of the employed). However, the P.P.E. from the hunger of the victor, this can either be a
monsters growing in another lab. eggs that hatch is lost forever. Thus, like fight for dominance or to the death. In the
The Aishwarra (pronounced eye-sh any natural resource that is exploited latter case, the loser serves as a meal for
wahr-rah) is a deadly creature from without being replenished, the world's the winner.
Bodakhan's alien home world, the world level of ambient P.P.E. diminishes over • The Aishwarra are not smart crea
of the Grackle Tooth D-Bees (although, time. tures. With the equivalent of low animal
on their world, the Grackle Tooth are According to Desmond Bradford, the intelligence, Aishwarra are driven by
known as the Jin-Ro). On that planet, the Aishwarra and creatures like them, are instinct, hunger and the need to procreate.
Aishwarra are considered to be demons of exactly what the world needs to restore it That's it. They kill, eat, spawn and repeat.
destruction and a plague to all life. They to normal. Breed enough of these mon As dumb animals, they take on fights they
are not true demons - supernatural beings sters and they will literally eat magical cannot win, and often fight to the death .
- but horrible monsters that eat people and beings into extinction and then drain away They don't adapt to new environments so
destroy villages and towns. the magic from the ley lines. Left alone, to much as they bulldoze their way through
Aishwarra are nomadic, giant creatures spawn naturally, this process could take them. That means the same animal repeat
who devour virtually everything in their centuries, maybe even eons, but to a man edly falls for the same trap, tricks, or tac
path. Even worse, the monsters damage like Desmond Bradford, the Aishwarra is tics. It is very seldom that a Aishwarra can
their environment by permanently drain just the key to get things started. Bradford learn from experience. Immensely formi
ing their surroundings of ambient magical can increase the growth process and, if dable and dangerous, the dumb brutes are
energy (P.P.E.). These dinosaur-sized necessary, create hWldreds in his labs to more like weapons of mass destruction to
predators are constantly on the hunt for unleash on an unsuspecting world . He is be unleashed than intelligent agents able
food and entire commWlities have been not so insane as to be unaware of the obvi to adapt to their environment and hwlt and
wiped out by Aishwarra on a rampage. ous dangers. Left unchecked, the creatures choose their targets.
These monsters have no natural predators would run rampant across the continent That's where Project Omega comes
and indiscriminately kill just about any and ravage the people and holdings of the in. You see, the mad doctor has taken
one or anything who oppose them or gets Coalition States as well as their enemy. Aishwarra DNA and reshaped it to create
in their way. However, some victims are That would never do. One solution is the a new monster that is smarter and hunts
not killed outright. These are the unlucky implantation of a destructive device that very specific prey: mages, creatures of
ones. Those whom the female Aishwarra can be activated at will. The danger, of magic, and supernatural beings. Project
does not kill at once are stored in feeding course, being that the device could fail. As Omega is nearing its final stage and is just
sacks located under the creature's a double failsafe, Bradford has genetically about operational. Open the gates and let
abdomen. Soon the slow, painful process engineered a germ that can wipe out the the Omega Beasts loose, and they make a
of their P.P.E. and life energies being popUlation within a single generation. But beeline to the Magic Zone and other
drained away will begin. The victims' there are other problems with just letting places of magic to devour the creatures of
P.P.E., indeed, their very life force, is used the dumb beasts loose. magic the inhabit that area. When they are
11 1
all devoured over, say, the next 6-10 Horror Factor: Adult Male: 16. Adult too large and too powerful), Lesser
years, the creatures will spread out in Females: 18. Young: 11-14 depending Oemons, and other beings with high P.P.E.
search of others. Meanwhile , Doctor upon age and size. (70 points or more) are necessary to bear
Bradford is still working on a superior P.P.E.: 104xSO young .
breed of AishwalTa that don't hunt and eat Experience Level: Not applicable These beings are swallowed whole and
people, but sit like blobs, soaking in, and unharmed, stored, unconscious, and held
using up, the ambient energy of ley lines. Disposition: The AishwalTa is a single in a sort of stasis-sleep inside individual
That having been said, he thinks it would minded monstrosity consumed with eat storage sacks filled with a protein solu
be wonderful to drop a dozen Aishwarra ing (people!) and devouring practitioners tion. Victims can be held in stasis inside a
off in the Magic Zone and/or the Calgary and creatures of magic, swallowing them sack for up to 10 weeks before the mon
Rift and let them wreak havoc on the mag whole, as they are needed to bear young. ster will either eat them or use them to
ical beings who infest those regions, then Enemies: None, per se. All other crea bear young.
destroy any Aishwarra who leave that des tures are regarded as prey. Once eggs are fertilized by a male, the
ignated "feeding range." AUies: None, not even each other. captives inside stasis sacks are slowly
Habitat: Prefer deserts and arid environ drained of their P.P.E. and life energy over
DATAFILE ALPHA-4 ments, but can be found anywhere during a 104+ 10 week period. At the end of this
summer months, migrating south in the period, the process kills everyone in each
Name: Aishwarra
winter. of the 2D6+ 30 sacks and the embryos are
Pronunciation: eye-sh-wahr-rah
released as eggs the size of a SO gallon
Also known as: Oemon or Demon Plague
Average Life Span: 306+20 years. drum. The hard, leathery eggs (each has
on the AishwalTa'S homeworld.
Reach full, physical maturity in four 1D6x I 0+20 M.D.C.) are buried in a safe
Classifcation: Anti-Magic Monster
years. place on or near a source of P.P.E. energy
Alignment: Animal predator generally
Females give birth to one young for (ley line, place of magic, etc.) by the
considered Diabolic.
every storage sack that contains a live mother. They continue to gestate, buried,
Attributes: I.Q. ID6+2 (low animal intel
mage, creature of magic, or other being for another 204+4 weeks. When they
ligence), M.E. 1D6+2, M.A. 1D4, P.S .
with great magic energy (70 or more hatch, the baby Aishwarra, the size of a
206+38 (Supernatural), P.P. 106+9, P.E.
points of P.P.E.). And an Aishwarra has black bear, scatter into the surrounding
206+21 (Supernatural), P.B. 104, Spd
2D6+ 30 storage sacks located in the wilderness and immediately begin hunt
406+32 (23-S6 mph/36 .8 to 89.6 km).
underbelly toward the rear. This is the ing for humanoid food.
Size: Females: 1OO-ISO feet (30.S to 4S .7
sack-like appendage Moses, from the Aishwarra eggs are alive with magic
m) tall and about the same length. Males
graphic novel, was held inside after he energy. The very growth of the infants
are 20% smaller.
was swallowed whole. Once at least half within seems to raise the level of magic
Weight: Females: 206+ 10 tons! Males:
the sacks are filled with sources of living and keep it generating P.P.E. Each egg
204+7 tons.
PP.E., young start to gestate, feeding on contains 1D4x 100 P.P.E. that can be
M.D.C. by Location: the magical and life energy of the captives drawn upon by practitioners of magic.
• Antennae* (4; back): 200 each to grow strong. Use up all the available P.P.E. and it
• Eyes* (2; recessed): 7S each Moreover, a lone female does NOT regenerates within 24 hours, all but at S%
• Ears* (circles on head and back; 6):
need a male to bear young. Somehow, the less. Each time more than SO% of the
120 each
Aishwarra uses the mystic energy of her remaining energy is used, it returns S%
• Head: 104x I 00+ 330 many captives to fertilize her eggs and weaker the next day. This process will,
• Tri-BeaklMouth: 106x10+200 generate new life. However, once males eventually, permanently whittle the avail
• Nostril Spikes* (2; extendible): 40 each are born (usually 60% male, 40% females able P.P.E. below SO% of its original
', . Cheek Tusks (2): 200 each ratio), they do the work of fertilization. amount, at which point the baby inside
• Mouth Tentacles* (106+4; mouth): 20 each The ability for a lone female to generate dies and the remaining P.P.E. slips away
• Mantis Arms (2): 1D6xlOO+2S0 each new life without a male is unique and into the ether. Use less than half of the
• Throat Hands* (2; under neck) :
amazing. egg's original P.P.E. and the mystic energy
1D4xlO+20 each
Young grow to the size of a IS foot returns, in fit/I, 24 hours later, time and
• Legs (2): 204x100+400 each (4.6 m) truck within one month, and dou time again. How exactly this can be, is
• Clawed Feet (2): 104xlOO+300 each ble in size every month until they reach 80 unknown, but that's how it works.
• Storage Sacks* (42-62): 206+10 each feet (24.4 m) talVlong, at which point their Of course, sooner or later the baby will
• Main Body:
growth slows down. They'll reach full hatch, though frequent draining of the
Young Aishwarra (size of a bear)
size in two years' time, though they don't egg's energy (4 or more times a week)
406x10+60 M.O .C. reach physical maturity till the end offour retards the gestation, requiring an extra
Adult male 204x 1OO+SOO years. two weeks per week of draining to grow
Adultfemale 206x100+800 M.O .C. and hatch. This only occurs when the
A single asterisk (*) indicates a small or The Spawning Process: Practitioners of energy is drained below SO%. Should a
otherwise difficult target to strike. From a magic, minor creatures of magic like baby Aishwarra be born after an extended
distance an opponent is -4 to strike even Faerie Folk (dragons and gods are usually period of regular drain-offs, it will be half
with a "Called Shot" or careful aim.
112
LONE STAR COMPLEX : SECTOR 7
starved, half the nonnal size and half the towns and cities, cracking open vehicles the size of a human's entire body!
usual M.D.C. Masters of Runic and Bio and tearing down the sides of buildings to • Stomp or Kick: ID6x10+12 M.D.
Wizard magic, like the Splugorth, can pre get at and devour the people inside. That's • Bite with Beak: ID4xl0 M.D.
serve the eggs, and use them the same way the part Bodakhan doesn ' t think Doctor • Gore/Stab with Face/Cheek Tusks:
they use other living beings trapped inside Bradford fully appreciates . The fiend 2D4xl0 M.D., but counts as two attacks.
their magic weapons and devices. requires 20-80 people a week to live, and These horns are 10-15 feet (3 to 4.6 m)
while it can go two weeks between feed long.
Natural Abilities: Keen sense of smell ings, it typically gorges itself, eating two • Stab Attack with Nostril Spike (1):
and hearing, excellent vision, good speed, and three times as many people whenever 4D6 M.D. or the spike can unleash an
Supernatural Strength and Endurance. the opportunity presents itself. Females electrical blast that does ID6xl0 SD.C.
• Nightvision: 500 feet (152 m). eat four times as much per week when damage. This may be used to subdue
• Tunneling: Aishwarra are natu pregnant! opponents the creature wants to swallow
ral diggers and burrowers (80% skill) and, whole or to zap people and creatures who
on the rare occasions they are frightened, Vulnerabilities: Fire. Aishwarra suffer are minor annoyances.
may tunnel underground to elude their double damage from fire. However, its • Mouth Tentacle Swallow Attack:
pursuer. They also dig their nest into the fear of flames is out of proportion to the No damage. ID4+ 1 tentacles shoot out,
ground where they lay clutches of ID4 damage it actually inflicts. Aishwarra grab and pull the snared victim into the
eggs per burial location, sometimes in have been known to flee in panic from mouth and swallowed. The entire attack
caves. Can tunnel at half its running Spd. fires no larger than a bonfire. Setting fires takes less than 3 seconds and counts as
• Sense/Smell & Track P.PE. Creatures to drive away the Aishwarra was a stan one melee attack.
of Magic and the Supernatural: The mon dard Jin-Ro tactic, however, a panicked This attack is designed entirely to grab
ster can literally sniff out P.P.E. Anyone and stampeding Aishwarra becomes and swallow prey and opponents whole I
with more than 20 P.P.E. points is on its extremely unpredictable and may run in People with high P.P.E. are usually funnel
radar, but it can differentiate between mul any direction, through buildings, smash around the gullet and into an empty food
tiple sources ofP.P.E. based on the amount ing crops and creating carnage. storage sack. The victim is immediately
each individual possesses. Consequently, fire may be relegated to a stunned and once dropped into a sack
Range : 10 miles (16 km), xlO if magic last-ditch defense against the monsters if (takes one melee roundl15 seconds), he is
is being cast/used. 200 miles (320 km) to everything else fails. Furthennore, the one completely immobilized in a coma-like
sense the location of a ley line. thing the monster will brave fire to get at stasis. Food is charu1eled into the stomach
Track to the specific source (i.e., indi is people with high (70 or greater) PP.E., where the victim, alive and conscious is
vidual with the P.P.E.) 88% (+10% if the gobbling up as many as it can in a few dropped into a vat of stomach acid that
"source" has more than 200 P.P.E.); minutes and running away. Also note the does ID6xl0 M.D. every melee round (15
reduce by half on a ley line as the ambient monster can smell P.P.E. through fire and seconds).
energy interferes with the senses. it will return to swallow up the people Humanoids as large as 16 feet (4.8 m)
• Bio-Regeneration: The creature with high P.P.E. tall can be swallowed whole. 20 feet (6.1
recovers I D6 M.D.C. per hour as part of Also a terrible swimmer (30% skill) m) may be possible by the largest females,
its natural healing process. It also regener and dislikes deep water, but doesn't mind nothing bigger.
ates a lost tentacle, spike, sack, toe, foot, wading through water. Bonuses: +4 on Perception Rolls, +3 to
eye, or ear withing 2D6 days, and a leg or R.c.c. Skills: None, except as noted strike with bite, feet and anns, +6 to strike
arm within 2D6+20 days. above; driven entirely by instinct. when up close with its mouth tentacles, +2
Drawing on the living beings held to parry, +4 to pull punch (can regulate the
inside its feeding/storage sacks, every one Attacks per Melee: Six (thankfully). amount of M.D. it inflicts when it wants
P.P.E. point the monster drains from one to, but never in a panic), impervious to
of its victim, restores one M.D.C. point. Damage: The Supernatural Strength of Earth diseases. And +4 to save vs magic
Furthennore, similar to the Ley Line the average Aishwarra falls in the P.S . 41 attacks (in addition to other bonuses to
Walker ability, the monster can regenerate 50 range, and the following stats reflect save vs magic from a high P.E. attribute) .
ID6xl0 M.D.C. per hour by resting on a that: Magic: None, but is magic resistant.
ley line or at a nexu s. • Punch/Slap/Jab with Mantis Arms: Psionics: None.
The Hunger Plague: One reason the 6D6 M.D., 2D4x 10 M.D. on a Power Bionics and Cybernetics: None .
Jin-Ro/Grackle Tooth consider Aishwarra Punch, or ID6xl0 S.D.C. on a restrained
to be demons is that they eat p eople for strike. Value: The eggs are worth ID4 million
food. Lots and lots and lots of people. The • Head Butt or Body BumplNudge: credits as magic batteries and the
monster plows through everything in it's 5D6 M.D. , ID6x I 0 M.D. on a Power Butt, Splugorth would love to use them in their
path and eats anything that moves or gets or ID6xlO S.D.C. on a restrained strike. Bio-Wizard creations.
in its way. While the monster will eat large • Punch from Small Throat Arms:
dogs, goats, cattle, horses, and other large 3D6 M.D. , 6D6 M.D. on a Power Punch,
animals, its main food of choice is people, or ID4x l0 on restrained punch. And by
humans and D-Bees. And it attacks entire "small" we mean the hands are only about
113
The Omegas are Desmond Bradford's makes practitioners of magic and beings their designated prey and wait, like a jun
solution to the problems with the with high P.P.E. the Omegas'food. This is gle cat, for the right moment to potmce.
Aishwarra. He loves the idea of a creature what they eat, nothing else. And that's the However, where magic energy is great
who seeks out practitioners of magic, beauty of his Omega Beast's design, the and beings of magic are numerous,
creatures of magic, demons and other creature won 't attack anyone or anything Omega Beasts hunt in packs. They do so
"beings who possess high levels of the else. They live on people who have magic because prey is so plentiful, there is no
energy that is magic. The problem with energy inside them. An Omega could be rivalry between them, and they actually
the Aishwarra was that it is just too big surrounded by a million people and the get more food by cooperating and hunting
and too dumb to do the job without caus beast will die of starvafion. It cannot in packs. That's another advantage over
ing a great amount of collateral damage . attack or kill them because they do not the Aishwarra, the giant monster ignored
Bradford's solution, of course, was to poses the magic signature the Omega dragons and other powerful beings with
build a better magic-catcher. To create a Beast needs to identify prey. Unless it can massive amounts of P.P.E. because they
smart predator with many of the same find a creature of magic or a mage with at were too big for the monster to swallow
traits and abilities as the Aishwarra, but least 50 P.P.E., the beast can't find its prey. and use for procreation. The Omegas
one that was smaller, smarter and a much Perfect. don't need the energy to spawn, they feed
more efficient hunter. The Omega Beast Reduced dramatically in size, Omega on it, like Psi-Stalkers. That means a
is that creature. Beasts do not topple buildings, trash group of Omega Beasts see a dragon as
The Omega Beast senses magic energy farms, trample tanks, kill hundreds ofpeo one big target that a pack of them can
the same as the Aishwarra and it is also pie by accident or create giant paths of bring down and devour: sharing in the
driven by instinct to hunt other living destruction in their wake. Furthermore, meat, blood and feast of P.P.E. left from
beings with high magic energy. That Omega Beasts are smart. They hunt only the kill. Together, they can bring down
114
LONE STAR COMPLEX: SECTOR 7
any creature of magic or supernatural ter magic on the continent. Before you know • Main Body:
ror, be it a demon, dragon, god or city of it, the magic users and creatures of magic Young (the size of a wolf)
mages. No magic wielding being will be not under siege by packs of Omega Beasts 1D6x10+60 M .D.C.
safe from the Omega Beasts. will be fleeing en masse to get away Adult male
Omega Beasts are miniature versions before they are killed. Combine that effort ID4x100+200
of the Aishwarra with a number of obvi with new, targeted military campaigns and Adultfemale
ous differences. They stand 14-16 feet tall, practitioners of magic and inhuman magic 1D6x100+300 M.D.C.
their heads are smaller, their tusks propor users could be erased from the continent A single asterisk (*) indicates a small
tionately larger, speed faster, agility supe within 10-15 years. He knows, he's done or otherwise difficult target to strike. From
rior, and their apatite for people of magic all the computer simulation models. This a distance an opponent is -5 to strike even
as great as ever. The hindquarters where is not a pipe dream. It is reality and he is with a "Called Shot" or careful aim.
the female Aishwarra has her food storage ready to initiate Project Omega with 30 Horror Factor: Adult Male: 14. Adult
sacks, is replaced with a long, flat tail that days notice. Nine thousand Omega Beasts Females: IS. Young: 1D4+8 depending
ends in a large claw. The prehensile tail are already full grown and waiting to be upon age and size, but H.F. applies only to '
can whip around to strike and knock down awakened and unleashed. those it hunts; H.F. is half for people with
opponents and prey to the side or behind All that is needed is the spark to set it insignificant P.P.E.
the beast, as well as slash and claw at all into motion, and that spark is already P.P.E.: 1D4xl0
them. The claw-tail can cut prey to rib on its way to Chi-Town. Experience Level: Not applicable.
bons in a matter of minutes, and can chop
and slash in and up and down motion as DATAFILE OMEGA-l Disposition: Omega Beasts are cUlUling
well as side to side. Likewise, the wicked predators who stalk people of magic,
looking mantis-arms can bat, strike and Name: Omega Beast demons and creatures of magic. They may
impale enemies, the tusks can gore and the Classifcation: Anti-Magic Monster hunt alone or pool their resources and hunt
mouth can bite and tear flesh out by the What's in a Name: Omega has tradition large or powerful prey in packs. Likewise,
chunk. The two-toed feet, with their ally been used to signify resistance. In this individual packs of Omegas, numbering
hooked claws, can also slash adversaries case, resistance to the encroachment of into the hundreds combined, may run wild
and tear apart meat once the kill is made. magic and inhuman creatures of magic through a city of mages creating panic and
The Omegas also retain the small, thin and supernatural monsters against human attacking anyone they get the upper hand
arms and hands located in the chest of the ity. on. Such group attacks can be very effec
beast near the shoulders. They are used for Alignment: Animal predator, generally tive as the hunters do not linger, but feast
examining prey, removing armor and put considered Diabolic. quickly on the P.P.E. released by their vic
ting pieces of food into the mouth . Attributes: I.Q. 1D4+8 (high animal tims, gulp down several pieces of meat
Likewise, the mouth tentacles snatch up intelligence), M.E. 1D6+6, M.A. 1D6, and then run off with a dismembered limb
pieces of meat, lap up blood and, when P.S. 2D4+28 (Supernatural), P.P. 2D4+16,
or torso in their tentacles or clutched in
necessary, entangle and secure prey. The P.E. 2D4+20 (Supernatural), P.B. 1D6,
their small arms to eat in the wild away
nose spikes zap and stun prey and are used Spd 3D6+50 (35-46 mph/56 to 73 krn).
from those who might retaliate.
to warn intruders to back off or be Size: Females: 15-17 feet (4.6 to 5.2 m)
Habitat: Anywhere its prey can be found,
attacked. Although Omega Beasts do not tall and about the same length. Males are
they are found, be it forest , desert,
hunt people with low P.P.E. (under 50 20% smaller. The tail is 1.5 times longer
canyons, mountains or jungle. Dislike
points), they will fight back when cor than the body, about 24 feet (7.3 m) on
cold climates with sustained temperatures
nered, threatened or attacked. The zapper average.
below freezing.
nostril spikes are one way the creatures Weight: Females: ID6+3 tons! Males:
Enemies: All creatures and people who
warn other animals and humanoids to 1D4+2 tons.
use magic.
back off, or else. M.D.C. by Location:
Allies: None, other than their own kind.
Doctor Desmond Bradford can hardly • Eyes* (2; recessed): 15 each
wait to unleash his army of magic hunters • Ears * (4, concealed behind head Average Life Span: 2D6+20 years.
and wipe out magic from the face of the plates): 6 each Reach full, physical maturity in four
planet. Unlike the Aishwarra, the Omegas • Head, Heavily Plated: 3D4x10+130 years. Females lay ID6 eggs after a three
cannot store their victims or their energy, • Tri-BeakIMouth: 10 month pregnancy. The eggs are hidden
they just drain them on the spot. And if he • Nostril Spikes* (2; extendible): 14 each and buried in the ground, often in a cave,
can't figure out a way to eliminate the ley • Tusks (2): 50 each under a big rock or fallen tree, amidst city
lines and Rifts, he can create the perfect • Mouth Tentacles* (lD4+6): 6 each ruins, and other places deemed safe. The
predator to exterminate those who use • Mantis Arms (2): 1D6x10+120 each eggs gestate for another 2D4+4 weeks
magic. Of course, the Magic Zone is • Throat Hands* (2; under neck): before hatching. Young grow to the size of
Bradford's designated target zone for the 2D6+20 each a Great Dane within one month, and dou
first Omega Beast strike. Wipe out the • Legs (2): 2D4x10+140 each ble in size every month until they reach 10
Federation of Magic and you strike fear • Clawed Feet (2): 1D4x10+50 each feet (3 m) tall/ long, at which point their
into the hearts of every practitioner of • Claw-Tail (I): 2D6xl0 +120 growth slows down. They reach full size
115
LONE STAR COMPLEX: SECTOR 7
in two years, though they don ' t reach Range: 10 miles (16 krn), xS if magic • Blunt Attack from Claw Tail: 4D6
physical maturity till the end of four is being cast/used. 200 miles (320 krn) to M.D., ID4x 10 M.D. on a Power Strike, or
years. sense the location of a ley line. SD6 S.D.C. on a restrained strike.
Track to the specific source (i .e., indi • Slashing Attack from Claw Tail:
The Spawning Process: In the wild , vidual with the P.P.E.) 88% (+10% if the 6D6 M.D. , ID6x10+4 M.D . on a Power
males mate with females, the male leaves, "source" has more than 200 P.P.E.); Slash, or ID6xlO S.D.C. on a restrained
the female lays eggs and she leaves the reduce by half on a ley line, as the ambi strike.
eggs to hatch and the young to fend for ent energy interferes with the senses. • Head Butt or Body BumplNudge:
themselves. Unlike the AishwaITa, Omega • Bio-Regeneration: The creature 3D6 M.D., 6D6 M. D. on a Power Punch,
Beast young often stay together and form recovers lD6 M .D.C. per hour as part of or SD6 S.D.C. on a restrained strike.
packs early to take down man-sized prac its natural healing process. It also regener • Punch from Small Throat Arms:
titioners of magic (anyone with SO points ates a lost tentacle, spike, toe, foot, eye, or 2D6 M.D., 4D6 M .D. on a Power Punch,
or more P.P.E.). Although the Omegas ear within 2D6 days, and a leg, arm or tail or 6D6 S.D.C. on restrained punch. And
feed on the P.P.E., they also feed on the within 2D6+20 days. by "small" we mean the hands are only
meat and blood of those they slay. The Furthermore, similar to the Ley Line about the size of a human's.
P.P.E. signature of their prey (being a high Walker ability, the beast can regenerate • Stomp or Kick or Slash with
amount) is what singles out prey from 6D6 M.D.C. per hour by resting on a ley Clawed Feet: 6D6 M.D.
other humanoids. Note: Like the line or at a nexus. • Bite with Beak: 4D6 M .D.
Aishwarra, Omega Beast eggs radiate • The Magic Plague: Like the • Gore/Stab with Face/Cheek Horns:
with P.P.E. , but only 2D6+6 points, and Aishwarra, Omega Beasts are driven to 1D6x 10 M.D. , but counts as two attacks .
aren't suitable as P.P.E. batteries. hunt and kill. However, they specifically These horns are 3-S feet (0.9 to I .S m)
target " people of magic," as Bradford puts long.
Natural Abilities: Keen sense of smell it, including mages, dragons, Faerie Folk • Stab Attack with Nostril Spike (1):
and hearing, excellent vision, good speed, and other creatures of magic, demons and ID4 M.D. ill the spike can unleash an
Supernatural Strength and Endurance. supernatural beings who usually have a electrical blast that does 3D6 S.D.C. dam
• Prehensile Claw-Tail: Used primari high P.P.E., as well as some D-Bees, age. This is used to chase people away and
ly as a means of attack and defense, the priests and shamans who possess more as a warning.
Claw-Tail can also be used to climb, hang than SO points of P.P.E. Everyone else is • Mouth Tentacle Swallow Attack:
upside down from a tree or the wall or off limits. Never kill animals or livestock. No damage. ID4+3 tentacles shoot out,
ceiling of a cave or tunnel, chop meat and The beast needs to eat 6-10 people a week grab and pull the snared victim into the
dig. to live, and while it can go two weeks mouth to be bitten or held in place and
• Climbers: Scale rocks, debris, caves between feedings, Omega Beasts prefer to gored or battered by the small arms or
and mountainous terrain reasonably well eat 2-3 people every two days, especially clawed at with the feet. Entanglement is
and can even climb trees. Climbing skill is when prey is plentiful. Pregnant females likely to be quick and holding onto prey,
80%/6S%. eat twice as much. once ensnared, can be maintained for as
• Fair Swimmers: Swimming skill is long as the Omega desires. Fortunately for
60%, but don't care for water. Vulnerabilities: Fire. Like the Aishwarra, those held by the tentacles, the victim may
• Increased Burst of Speed: Can run Omega Beasts suffer double damage from not be pinned and can continue to fight. If
at speeds SO% greater than normal in a fire. Its fear of flames, however, is not as the beast loses more than one tentacle or
short burst lasting two minutes. Such a extreme as its giant cousin, and the fire sustains too much damage, it will let the
burst can be done three times any hour. has to be large or inflict Mega-Damage to character go and try to kick him away or
• Nightvision: SOO feet (lS2 m). hold it at bay. A cunning predator, an leap out of harm's way.
• Tunneling: Omegas are natural dig Omega knows a fire will eventually die Bonuses: +3 on Perception Rolls, +S to
gers and burrowers (80% skill) and, on the out and the beast will wait unless it senses strike, +6 to strike when up close with its
rare occasions they are frightened, may other prey nearby. mouth tentacles, +2 to parry, +4 to pull
tunnel underground to elude their pursuer. R.C.C. Skills: None per se. Uses hit and punch (can regulate the amount of M .D. it
They also dig their nests into the ground run tactics, ambush, teamwork (or may inflicts when it wants to, but never in a
where they lay clutches of I D4 eggs per hunt alone), and cunning. Still, it is a crea panic) , impervious to Earth diseases.
burial location, sometimes in caves. Can ture of instinct. Magic: None.
tunnel at half its running Spd. Psionics: None.
• Sense/Smell & Track P.P.E., Attacks per Melee: Seven.
116
Lll
FURTHER ADVENTURES by Kevin Siembieda
MACHINATIONS OF DOOM
rebels from fallen Tolkeen, seeking revenge, self. He realizes that the Emperor must
broke into the Lone Star Complex in a daring appear to follow certain morals and laws in
Doctor Desmond Bradford is convinced raid to destroy the beasts and slaughter the the public eye. However, Doctor Bradford
that the Omega Beasts are his crowning men responsible. How terrible that, in the believes this is for show and that Emperor
achievement to date. Not just their design and heat of the battle and blinded by rage, these Prosek would like him to secretly do whatev
creation, but their introduction into the world . sorcerers and their demonic henchmen acci er it takes to keep the Coalition States safe
Seeing them released into the wild will be dentally released the very genie they had and to insure the rise of humanity. That
his masterwork in manipulation and life alter hoped to keep bottled up. That their ill means destroying its enemies. In order to
ing accomplishments . He knows that advised raid set the Omega Beasts loose into avoid implicating his Emperor in any public
Emperor Prosek could never even "official the world. The Magic Zone, being the closest wrongdoing, Dr. Bradford is setting things in
ly" authorize the creation of such a monster, and most radiant region of magic, will attract motion so that Emperor Prosek has plausible
for it uses alien DNA, which is forbidden in the Omegas like moths to a light, turning the deniability and is able to weather any public
Lone Star genetic research. Furthennore, the Magic Zone and the Federation of Magic into storm that might arise. Since Project Omega
very creation of the beasts could be construed the creatures ' first target. ultimately furthers the Coalition 's agenda,
as a premeditated act of war - no, genocide. How tragically ironic (and poetic) that the the fallout is likely to be outside the Coalition
If word of such a monstrous experiment ever very people targeted for extinction would be States.
got out, it could provoke a militant group the ones to unleash the source of their doom . By sending only the information he wants
such as the Federation of Magic to make a These are the machinations of Desmond Chi-Town to have, Bradford is in the perfect
preemptive strike against Chi-Town and/or Bradford, and his plan has already been put position to assuage any future investigations
Lone Star and other Coalition States, trigger into action. Now, all he has to do is wait for and the handling of "the project. " This is
ing a wide scale war the likes of which would it to all unfold with the public release of the Bradford's most daring, duplicitous, and
dwarf the Siege on Tolkeen. It might even information stolen by our heroes. There is no aggressive course of action to date. How that
unite mystic forces where the Tolkeen con doubt the Emperor will respond as imagined, might concern Karl Prosek is yet to be deter
flict could not. More importantly, a great man above, and if real sorcerers and demons don't mined. Loose cannons, even brilliant ones,
such as Emperor Karl Prosek must be spared attack the complex, Bradford is ready to can become a liability.
allegations of genocide if he is to continue to stage it, complete with the corpses of As seen in the last page of the graphic
reign as the supreme and noble champion of Brodkil, Daemonix and mages he has held in novel, thousands of Omega Beasts are ready
humanity. stasis, plucked from refugees fleeing to be unleashed.
Ah, but what if one of the Emperor's Tolkeen. Since dead men don't tell tales, his
"humble and misguided servants" took it story will become the official report of the IN THE CHI-TOWN 'BURBS
event and his plan to wipe out "people of
-----
upon himself to initiate such a terrible enter
prise? What if that man, operating under the magic" within a generation will have begun. In order to get their payoff (and to set
best of intentions, created the organic mecha Bradford's plan in action), our heroes have to
nism to destroy untold millions of enemies of THE PLOT THICKENS get the disk to the Chi-Town 'Burbs where
the State? Of course, such a loyal and dedi there are any number of factions who would
cated servant of the Emperor and humanity Doctor Bradford deliberately let the pay handsomely for this information. That
would never launch such an operation with adventurers escape with the incriminating includes Tolkeen Retributionists, the
out the Emperor 's direct approval. And a evidence. Bradford knows that they will Federation of Magic, Lazlo, New Lazlo,
good man like Karl Prosek would never take probably take it to Chi-Town, where it will Archie, the Republicans, factions within the
such drastic action against innocent, if mis become public, enrage Emperor Prosek and Black Market and many other enemies and
gui'ded and inhuman people, even if it meant ultimately bring the wrath of the Coalition critics of the CS. Inevitably, they'll make the
reclaiming North America for millions of States down upon him and Lone Star. That's infonnation about the Aishwarra and the dan
humans for generations to come. He is too exactly what he wants so he can execute ger it represents to everyone known to the
noble, merciful and good . Project Omega. public. This may be done to embarrass the
The Emperor would rebuke such a mad Doctor Bradford remains loyal to the Prosek regime, cause discord for the CS,
scheme the very moment he learned about it. Coalition and his Emperor, and this is all a incite CS enemies to riot or take more aggres
Should such a campaign be made public it ploy to wipe out magic users, if not magic sive action against the CS and/or Lone Star
would make the Emperor look bad, and he entirely, within a generation. He also assumes and Bradford, or as a sincere effort to prevent
would condemn it, chastise everyone tbat he will receive little more than a public such creatures from being let loose into the
involved and demand the initiative be shut reprimand and a mock punishment, and be world. Our heroes fall into the latter category.
down at once. Proving to all the world that he left to continue his experiments and project The Omega Project is only hinted at, but it
was not party to the diabolical plot, that he is without further interruption. Tbat will is clear that it is an even more aggressive and
above such temptation, and that the Coalition include secretly breeding and pumping out dangerous plot to wipe out practitioners of
States - the last bastion of humanity - is led tens of thousands of Omega Beasts annually. magic.
by a great and noble man. Bradford has always believed his experi As for our heroes, their payoff for selling
Thus, all the more tragic when it is report ments and research are too important to be the infonnation could be anywhere from zero
ed that agents of tbe Federation of Magic stopped by regulations and policies, even to ID8 million credits split eight ways! Zero
angered by the reports, or perhaps hate-filled those set down by Emperor Karl Prosek him or something in between 1-8 million if they
118
decide to be good guys and give the info Vanguard. them for help or a way to make more money,
away for the better good. Millions if Johnny, 3. Moses could be attacked by one or or to protect his friends when he's gone.
Roddy and OJ. can convince the others that more Omega Beasts during some adventure, • What other secrets might our heroes
the secret will get out, stop the project, save soon or in the future. have in that download from section 7c of the
lives and then make money at the same time. 4. Having served their purpose, Doctor Lone Star Complex? Maybe there is addition
This pitch might fly even better if the buyer Bradford might send out Krieghoff's Pack (or al data Bradford never meant for them to
is a notorious bad guy group like the other mutants, agents or bounty hunters) to have and now he wants it back or them
Federation of Magic. Certainly the group do away with them. After all, they did break silenced. Or maybe it just leads to more
could use the money, and OJ. , facing his own into the complex and get away alive. Can't adventures in and around the Lone Star
mortality, will push hard for them to make a have people thinking he's soft. Or, he might Complex involving mutants, monsters and
profit. "Right is right," he'll say, "but who want Doctor Heston back. Then again, he other machinations of Bradford's. This info
says we can 't make a little profit doing the might not care about them one way or anoth could be passed along to other characters (the
right thing, eh? That's what adventuring and er, or since they worked out so splendidly as player group) and spun off from there.
mercenary operations are all about. We've dupes once, why not use them again? • Shakes has no memory of his previous
done a heck of a lot worse for less money. 5. Any number of organizations, including life before his M.O.M. conversion and even
This is something good, and we should see the Coalition Military, may want to get their parts of it afterward. His mind is a wreck.
something good for us out of it. Come on, hands on poor Doctor Heston and dig out all Maybe his past had something to do with the
Johnny and Moses almost got killed. We all the secrets he knows about Bradford and Player Characters. A search for his past?
could have gotten killed. " It's a convincing Lone Star - or silence him before he can spill • Where did Moses come from? Moses
argument. the beans. reveals his true identity to our heroes, or
If they decide not to sell the info, or lose 6. Now that our heroes are rich, they may leaves them for a while and turns to another
or destroy it, Doctor Roddy Heston, seeking hire other adventurers to go on missions to group of heroes (the Player Characters) for
fame, glory and a fortune, will leak it deliber make more money, or to help people in need. help or to go on an adventure or mission of
ately for profit. Or he may leak it by accident, 7. Do our heroes feel guilty for playing mercy or revenge, or ...
blabbing when he 's drunk at his first visit to into Bradford's hands and launching Project Could Moses have his own agenda? He
a 'Burbs bar. Or blab enough that some other Omega? If so, do they and other heroes they certainly has his share of secrets. Hmm, what
villain steals the computer disk or kidnaps contact, enlist or hire (like the Player might they be? Wanted by the Splugorth?
Roddy to get the info. All of which could Characters), try to do something about it? If Enemy of Mrryln?
make for some fun adventures in and of so what? Take down Bradford? Sabotage the • Doctor Alexander was erasing the data
themselves. labs? Hunt down Omegas? Help warn and from the Aishwarra experiment. He doesn't
defend innocent practitioners of magic? believe in Bradford's vision and could tum
THE FALLOUT 8. A chance encounter with Krieghoff's against him at any time. Does he tum to our
Pack could get ugly under any circumstance. Player Characters for help and protection? Is
It's the aftermath of the info going public Note: This can all have an impact on Rifts Krieghoff's Pack dispatched to bring him
that our heroes have to worry about. It will players because their characters could back or shut him up, permanently?
give Bradford the opportunity he's been look become entangled in any of these capers and • Any run-in with Krieghoff and his
ing for to release the Omega Beasts. The fall situations. They could be the ones hired to pack is trouble. Use the characters from the
out from that will be immediate and profound take down our heroes, or kidnap Roddy, or graphic novel in all kinds of fun ways.
as they infest the Magic Zone. get the computer files, or work to save the
I . If it was the Federation of Magic or group or protect Roddy, or have Roddy run
some other evil magic faction who bought the away from our heroes and join them,
info from our gang, they may feel cheated bringing all of the trouble outlined above to
and set up. That means they'll want retribu them. Think and be imaginative.
tion against our heroes. Remember, a journey through Rifts Earth
2. Others might wrongly conclude our is not a walk in the park, and there can be
heroes are secretly working for the CS or are encounters, detours and adventure with our
in cahoots with Doctor Bradford. After all, heroes on the way to and at the Chi-Town
they have a Dog Boy in their group, a 'Burbs. The Player Characters (assuming the
Grackle Tooth known to live in Lone Star, players aren't playing the heroes from the
Anika who sure behaves like an ISS agent or graphic novel) could encounter the group at
Military Specialist, a Juicer who could easily any point, help them, and/or get embroiled
be a Coalition soldier, and who knows who or with any of the subplots and ideas for future
what is under that black mask and robe of the adventures. Furthermore, the player group
group's supposed mage. could be deemed guilty by association or
This conclusion could lead to all sorts of even confused the gang from Lone Star.
adventures, from people out to get them, to
people trying to get in good with the CS. This MORE POSSIBILITIES
could lead to our heroes discovering plots
against mages, D-Bees and innocent people • What is O.J.'s story? Might he split off
in the 'Burbs, to Coalition raids or purges in from our heroes to go off adventuring with
the ' Burbs, to smuggling opportunities, or the another group of adventurers, e.g. the Player Unleash your imaginations, build on what
chance to actually work for the Coalition. Or Characters? Maybe OJ. used to run with the we've presented and explore the infinite pos
maybe a run-in (good or bad) with the Player Characters in the past and he turns to sibilities. Have fun!
119
120
PINUPS
121
SKETCHBOOK
DOODLES
Before starting work on Machinations of where never my favourite characters in Rifts lated some concepts I used in my designs of
Doom, I sat down with my sketchbook and (I know some fans will hate me for this) but I the Battle Magus from Federation of Magic
took a pass at each of the characters. felt I should include one. So I went with the and came up with a Moses that I was much
The cast of characters was taken, and the standard design of the class. However, over happier with.
story based as well, on a piece I did for the the course of the series OJ probably ended up But what about Johnny? There's no sketch
Lone Star Sourcebook, which I've included being one of the more rounded out and of my favourite Burster as I pretty much had
at the beginning of this book. With the tem fleshed out characters of the series! him pegged in a piece I did years earlier and
plate of characters in hand I began to flesh Bodakhan? He was a D-Bee of my own felt no need to change him up.
them out. design that I'd peppered thought previous As Kevin and the Palladium crew feel
Shakes was inspired by a rendition of a books. A hulking mass of orange muscle and like my surrogate family south of the border,
Crazy I did for the New West sourcebook full of love. Shakes, Bowie, Anika, OJ, Bodakhan, Moses
while Bowie was based on one of my And finally Moses . As you can see from and Johnny feel like my own little family in
favourite breeds of dog; the bulldog. I've the sketch on the opposite page, he 's the the world of Rifts! I hope you've enjoyed
always like strong female characters, so mak character that changed the most. When I their adventures, and I hope you'll make your
ing Anika the two gun toting pseudo leader began work on the second chapter, where the own as well". and maybe one day I'll be able
was a given. rest of the cast had their debut, I suddenly had to tell a few more!
Now while some of the characters I lav an urge to change up his design . The original
ished attention on, I will be honest and say look just wasn't clicking. So I redesigned - Ramon.
that OJ got the short end of the stick. Juicers him on the page I drew the comic. I extrapo
122